The project’s aim is to develop a computationally efficient and accurate aeroelasticity model based on a novel modification of the unsteady nonlinear aerodynamic vortex lattice method and a structural finite element model. Similar lower order models are commonly used for design and optimisation tasks, where fast iterations are important, but currently existing models poorly represent rapid aerodynamic nonlinearities. The accuracy of the developed model will be tested and improved by performing wind tunnel and flight test experiments and comparing their results with the results of the model. Additionally, a use case validation of the aeroelasticity model is planned, by using it to create a digital twin of the test flight UAV. The digital twin will then be used to develop an artificial-intelligence-powered machine-learning-based aircraft control algorithm. This control algorithm will be evaluated during experimental flight testing. It is expected that the developed aeroelasticity model can be used by small and medium enterprises to design lighter aircraft while avoiding negative aeroelastic effects. These aircraft would be more ecological and more economically viable.
Project funding:
Projects funded by the Research Council of Lithuania (RCL), Projects carried out by researchers’ teams
Period of project implementation: 2024-09-02 - 2027-08-31
Project coordinator: Kaunas University of Technology
