New propeller design tools improve drone performance through advanced optimization MATLAB software
Researchers at the University of Southampton invented a new method for designing more efficient propellers used on small drones. Their method uses a dedicated computer program called Matlab to improve the performance of drones, especially the drone used for first -person perspective operation. Among them, instant feedback is very important. These propellers are small in size and often face work performance challenges, especially because of the complex airflow mode they have experienced. The study was led by Dr. Stephen Prior and Daniel Newman-Sanders, published in the “Applied Science” magazine in July 2024.
The team’s experts have developed an innovative computer program that helps optimize the design of these small propellers. This program carefully adjusts the shape and angle of the blades to ensure that they work as effective as possible. The key part of their work is to ensure that the airflow on the propeller is kept above the level of 100,000 Renault (RE), which is essential for maintaining a strong performance. “This level is important because it distinguishes the inefficiency and efficiency of propeller performance,” said Dr. Preel. Compared with standard design, their improved design shows the significant improvement of propeller work performance.
The Matlab computer program also allows users to see how force and torque are distributed along the propeller blades. This can better understand how design changes affect the overall efficiency. In order to test their methods, the researchers compared their results with the data of actual small propellers, and found that their predictions were very accurate. New design can greatly improve the battery life of small drones, enabling them to fly longer and consume less energy at the same time.
Newman Sanders emphasized how this research was applied in the real world: “The first-person perspective of drones becomes more and more important in many special operations, and it is crucial to balance the battery life and performance in these special operations. Our goal is to ensure that these drones can achieve this balance more effectively. Essence
The results of this study not only have a wider impact on drone technology, but also affect any situation of small high -efficiency propellers. Although larger aircraft propeller can reach a very high level of efficiency, smaller aircraft propeller usually performs poorly. The progress made by Dr. Prior and his team broke through the boundaries of the possibility, and made significant progress in improving the design of drone propellers.
Researchers hope to further promote their work by creating a propeller design that further reduce energy loss. They are also exploring choices such as using overlapping propellers to improve efficiency. Future research will also explore how to apply this method to other small propeller used in different industries. The goal is to set new standards for high -efficiency design.
Dr. Preie added: “The Ukraine War highlighted the demand for high -efficiency first -person perspective (FPV) drone. This drone can fly long distances while carrying a large amount of effective load.”
Journal reference
Prior, SD and Newman-Sanders, D. Applied science, 2024.
About the author
Dr. Stephen D. Puriel Have a reader qualification of the University of Putun University of Nan’an. He is also the director of the autonomous system laboratory, and the laboratory is engaged in national defense related research. Dr. Prior is the author of 200 technical publications. His research interest includes coaxial rotor aircraft, new drone and habitat technology. He is an active member of IMECHE, who was the president of the Chinese ICICE Conference and the co -chair of the Taiwan ICMES Conference. He is also a member of the editing committee of “Unmanned Systems Journal”, “International Journal of Micro Air Vehice” and “Journal of Science and Innovation”. Dr. PRIOR is the founder and CEO of Hybrid Drones LTD. The company develops heavy hybrid technology for the last mile supply and other tasks.
Dannaman-Sanders He is currently a software engineer and works in a technology company in Bristol, England. He previously worked in the defense industry to study the complex guidance, control and navigation algorithms of missiles and missile systems. He studied at Southampton University in the United Kingdom and obtained a master’s degree in aerospace first -level honorary engineering degrees. During college, his enthusiasm includes computing optimization and the design and manufacturing of the aircraft system. After work, his interests include football and running.
