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  • Development and Experimental Test of an In-Flight Thrust and Torque Measuring System
    Publication . Simões, Rafael da Conceição; Brojo, Francisco Miguel Ribeiro Proença; Soares, Marcelo de Pinho
    This thesis details the design, development, and validation of an in-flight thrust and torque measurement system, aimed at optimizing the performance of UAV powerplant systems through real-time data analysis. The system was integrated into TEKEVER’s AR3 UAV and subjected to a multi-phase testing approach encompassing controlled dynamometer (dyno) tests, static testbench trials, and dynamic flight testing under real operational conditions. These tests allowed for a detailed examination of the engine-propeller system’s behavior under varying load scenarios, including different airspeeds, aerodynamic forces, and throttle settings. Findings from this study underscore the significant impact of real-flight conditions on engine and propeller performance, with observed reductions in engine speed, power, and thrust when compared to static ground test results. These reductions are attributed to the aerodynamic forces encountered in flight, such as drag and wind resistance. A critical outcome of the research was the ability to cross-check the thrust values obtained during cruise with the aerodynamic drag on the UAV, which allows for improved calibration of the company’s Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model. This cross-verification process not only supports more accurate predictive modeling but also provides a foundation for enhancing future powerplant and propeller matching studies. Additionally, the study highlights the effectiveness of the in-flight measurement system for capturing detailed thrust and torque data under operational conditions, providing a robust baseline for evaluating engine-propeller combinations in real time. This research contributes essential advancements in UAV performance optimization, offering new methodologies for measuring and analyzing powerplant efficiency under flight conditions. This project was fully funded and supported by TEKEVER UAS, whose resources, technical support, and expertise were instrumental in the successful execution of this research.
    2025-10-02Master thesis Restricted access Show more