Optimization of the Longitudinal Stability of Unman ned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) UX 004

Abstract

Improper longitudinal weight distribution within any air vehicle cuts down the efficiency from the standpoint of altitude, manoeuvrability, rate of climb, endurance, and speed. It may even be the cause of an uncontrollable accident because of the excessive loads exerted upon the control surfaces of an improperly trimmed air vehicle. Even control surfaces can become ineffective below certain speeds to compensate the counterbalancing forces due to air vehicle CG forcing out of the specified limits. The distance of the elevator control surfaces from the trailing edge, elevator area, deflection angles and rate of deflection are also factors that directly contribute to the longitudinal stability when the air vehicle is operating closer to the forward or aft limits of the designer specified CG range. This paper presents procedures and methodologies of data collection, analysis and precision adjustments that can be carried out optimizing the aerodynamic performance of the air vehicle thereby incorporating enhanced performance and operational safety.