Longitudinal Aerodynamics of a Vertical Takeoff and Landing Micro Air Vehicle

The research and development efforts outlined in this paper address the aerodynamic design of micro air vehicles that are capable of vertical takeoff and landing, as well as hovering. The effect of a propulsive slipstream on a wing's quasi-steady aerodynamics is investigated as an early step toward improving existing vertical takeoff and landing designs and control algorithms. Wind-tunnel testing was conducted on a propulsion system with contrarotating propellers, a wing, and the combined wing and propulsion system. Aerodynamic coefficient definitions are discussed with regard to vertical takeoff and landing micro air vehicles, and modified definitions are presented.