Innovative Developments in Propeller Technology: Insights from the CRAFT Project
Recent findings from the initial phase of the CRAFT (Contra Rotating, Analysis, fabrication, and Test) initiative have been unveiled by Mejzlik Propellers in collaboration with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI).
enhancing Urban Air Mobility Through research and Development
This research and development endeavor aims to refine the coaxial design for Urban Air Mobility (UAM) systems, emphasizing both operational efficiency and noise reduction. These factors are crucial for the triumphant execution of flight missions.
Addressing Noise Challenges in eVTOL Aircraft
Among the critical aspects of propeller design are safety, reliability, performance, and noise levels. The latter poses a significant hurdle for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft,especially in urban settings where public acceptance is vital. This issue extends to smaller aerial vehicles, such as drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), which are increasingly utilized for delivery services and defense operations.
Phase One: focused Testing on Single Rotating Propellers
The first phase of the CRAFT project concentrated on a scaled-down single rotating (SR) propeller configuration under hover conditions. The objective was to enhance propeller performance while balancing the often conflicting goals of efficiency and noise reduction.
Innovative Design and testing Methodologies
A total of four distinct propeller designs were created using various hybrid optimization techniques. These prototypes were manufactured and later tested at Mejzlik’s performance lab and Resideo’s anechoic chamber, where their performance and acoustic properties were compared against a standard mejzlik 18×6 MC propeller.
Promising Results and Future Directions
the findings indicated that the performance and acoustic trends were consistent with the initial design analyses. These insights could prove invaluable for developers of multirotor systems. Comprehensive reports detailing the results and the extensive development process, along with discussions on each design and testing phase, can be accessed here:
- Optimized Performance and Acoustic Design of Hover-Propeller
- Propeller Optimization: Balancing Performance and acoustic Trade-offs
Looking Ahead: Advancements in Contra Rotating Configurations
The subsequent phase of the project will delve into the more intricate optimization of the contra rotating (CR) configuration, paving the way for further advancements in propeller technology.
