A methodology for multirotor aircraft power budget analysis

Abstract

Purpose

The primary purpose of this study is to analyse the performance of multirotor unmanned aircraft system platforms for passenger transport and compare them with an ordinary helicopter solution. This study aims to define a standard procedure for power budget analysis of unconventional vehicles recently proposed in the aerospace industry, providing guidelines on rotor sizing in terms of required power and the total number of rotors. The ultimate purpose of the proposed work is to describe a methodology for power estimation with regard to emerging electric vertical takeoff and landing (EVTOL) vehicles.

Design/methodology/approach

In the context of urban mobility, short-range passenger transport between critical hubs in cities is taken into account and innovative aircraft and traditional helicopters are compared according to a common mission profile. The power budget equations used in the helicopter literature are revisited to consider different multirotor configurations (up to 20 rotors) and evaluate the feasibility of innovative aerospace vehicle design.

Findings

The paper includes insights into the maximum number of rotors that ensure a significative, relative power reduction compared to helicopter platforms (the power-to-cruise over power-to-hover ratio appears to be improved). Based on this preliminary analysis, the results suggest the benefit of reducing the installed rotors to avoid excessive power loss in forward flight.

Practical implications

The proposed study provides guidelines for further design considerations and the future development of EVTOL multirotor aircraft.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils the identified need for a systematic approach on performance analysis for innovative vehicles involved in commercial applications.

Citation

Barra, F., Scanavino, M. and Guglieri, G. (2020), "A methodology for multirotor aircraft power budget analysis", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 92 No. 6, pp. 909-916. https://doi.org/10.1108/AEAT-09-2019-0183