Effect of an external vortex on the uav aerodynamic performances

Warda Boudaoud, Tayeb Yahiaoui, Bachir Imine and Omar Imine

Laboratory of aeronautics and propulsive systems - Mechanical Engineering Faculty, USTO Oran, B.P 1505 El Mnaouer U.S.T. Oran. Algeria
E-mail: imine_b@yahoo.fr

Published online: 15 June 2012

Abstract

In this present work, the CFD and wind tunnel are used to investigate the effect of an external vortex around an UAV in order to obtain initial estimates of lift and drag coefficients with flow velocity of 30 meters per second for various angles of attack. The model of Spalart- Allmaras turbulence is used for the investigation of the complex flow around the UAV. The wind tunnel and CFD results are compared and appropriate error bands placed on the data.