Conceptual design of a UAV with VTOL characteristics

摘要

The conceptual design phase of a fixed-wing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) with Vertical Take Off and Landing (VTOL) characteristics is presented. Two distinct concepts, adopting the Blended Wing Body (BWB) layout, are designed based on the same mission requirements. Their performance is investigated using low fidelity tools, semi-empirical correlations, as well as CFD. The two concepts are evaluated and compared in relation to their flight characteristics and VTOL capabilities. At the end, the best concept is selected for further investigation in the preliminary design phase.