Browsing by Author "Rodrigues, Rafael Carvalho"
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- Development of a Variable-Pitch Propeller DevicePublication . Rodrigues, Rafael Carvalho; Silvestre, Miguel Ângelo Rodrigues; Machado, José RenatoAdvanced Air Mobility (AAM) presents unique propulsion challenges due to the conflicting demands of vertical take-off and cruise phases. Traditional Fixed-Pitch propellers (FPP) struggle to meet these diverse requirements, especially in tilt-rotor configurations, where optimising performance across flight modes is crucial. In contrast, Variable-Pitch propellers (VPP) allow for blade pitch angle adjustment, significantly improving efficiency and operational flexibility. This adaptability enables Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) to carry out more complex missions while optimising performance across varying flight conditions. This research provides a thorough investigation into the design and implementation of a scalable VPP device, using a tilt-rotor electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) UAV as a study case. While the study focuses on a specific application, the methodologies and design concepts developed are adaptable and capable of supporting the development of similar VPP devices for a wide range of UAVs, regardless of their specific mission or configuration. The exploration includes a detailed literature review that introduces AAM as an emerging market, and highlights the limitations of FPPs while positioning VPPs as innovative solutions that address such challenges. One significant innovation of this work is the creation of a software tool that automates the process of dimensioning VPP systems. This simplifies the design process and allows for customisation for different UAVs and consequent mission requirements. The study includes the production of a prototype, demonstrating the functionality of the VPP mechanism and its implementation flexibility. The research results demonstrate clear advantages in implementing this device, directly comparing two versions of the same propeller (FPP and VPP), and establishing a foundation for future development of such a device as an upcoming product.