A commercial-off-the-shelf small unmanned paramotor was analyzed through flight testing, computational aerodynamic simulation, and propulsion system modeling. Conventional flight-test procedures were adjusted to combat platform-specific challenges. Low-order modeling approaches were adapted for the vehicle and aeropropulsive performance characteristics of lift-to-drag ratio, climb rate, and power required for steady flight were verified. Having quantified the effect of wing loading on the aerodynamic performance of the vehicle, a process for estimating endurance as a function of payload weight and composition was developed and demonstrated. Results indicated that for the tested vehicle the maximum endurance was consistently found at the maximum manufacturer recommended flight weight.
Characterization of Aeropropulsive Performance of Small Unmanned Aircraft System Paramotor
Journal of Aircraft ; 1-12
01.07.2025
Aufsatz (Konferenz) , Aufsatz (Zeitschrift)
Elektronische Ressource
Englisch