Design of a small-scale UAV textile wing fluid-structure numerical modelling

Abstract

This paper depicts the early phase in the research development for an integrated UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle)support system tailored for emergency response actions and remote sensing. The support system is envisioned as an integrated Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) system that consists of one or more ultralight multifunctional aerial units with a configuration that can be adapted to the nature of the intervention: monitoring, mapping, observation, logistics etc. These aerial units comprise of para-motor type UAVs that use textile paraglider wings of a special design. The overall development and theoretical design aspects that are involved in this research is subject of change been part of an ongoing research study. Starting from wing airfoil and material selection, a design phase is under development for a single sail paraglider wing that can meet the operational demands for the envisioned system. The wing is designed mainly to have an easy handling, predictable deployment at all times and good aerodynamic characteristics. The paper tackles in particular the stretch effect on the wing and the influence on these aerodynamic characteristics as well as means of minimizing the adverse effects.