VTOL Aerodynamic Configurations Analysis for Urban Air Mobility

Abstract

The present study endeavors to consider the most popular eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aerodynamic concepts employed nowadays. This research gives a theoretical evaluation of the possible eVTOL design with different electric or hybrid power plant configurations. Conventional helicopter, quadcopter and tiltrotor quadcopter with ducted fans or open rotors have been considered. Relationship between eVTOL mass parameters and available power of the power plant is calculated. Performance of the eVTOL with full electric and hybrid power plants in forward flight mode is estimated. Available and required power needs for speed envelope in hover and maximal speed modes are calculated. Optimal specific parameters (batteries, generators, electric motors) of fully electric and hybrid power plant elements are defined to provide acceptable eVTOL flight performance.