innovative Partnership for UAV Propeller Ice Protection
Mejzlik Propellers has forged a strategic alliance with UBIQ Aerospace to create an advanced ice protection system specifically designed for UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) propellers.
Expanding Ice Protection Focus
While UBIQ Aerospace has primarily concentrated on safeguarding aerodynamic surfaces from ice, the collaboration aims to broaden this focus. To effectively address the diverse needs of the UAS (unmanned aircraft systems) adn UAM (urban air mobility) sectors, it is crucial to also consider propellers and exposed sensors. Mejzlik, with its extensive expertise in propeller design and manufacturing, will adapt both existing and innovative proprietary technologies to tackle the challenges of propeller de-icing.
Research Roots and Advancement
The partnership traces its origins to Nicolas Müller’s master’s thesis at the University of Stuttgart, which investigated icing on propellers. Mejzlik supplied the propellers utilized in initial icing wind tunnel tests. Müller is now advancing his research through his Ph.D. studies at UBIQ and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology.
Impact of Icing on Performance
Initial findings from Müller’s research indicate that the rapid rotation of UAV propellers makes them particularly vulnerable to icing. Tests conducted in an icing wind tunnel revealed that ice accumulation could diminish propeller efficiency by as much as 40% within just one minute. Furthermore, ice can detach unevenly from individual blades, leading to instability and notable vibrations, posing serious risks to the aircraft’s safety.
Vision for Enhanced Propeller Technology
Kim Lynge Sørensen, the founder and CEO of UBIQ Aerospace, stated, “Our goal is to develop a propeller that integrates our proprietary technologies while leveraging mejzlik’s extensive capabilities in propeller design and manufacturing. We aim to deliver a propeller that remains operational in challenging atmospheric icing conditions.”
A Thorough Approach to Ice protection
“To ensure comprehensive protection against icing for the entire aircraft, safeguarding the propeller is essential. Our collaboration with Mejzlik marks a significant step toward achieving a complete ice protection solution,” Sørensen added.
Commitment to Market Needs
Jan Hruska, VP of Sales at Mejzlik Propellers, emphasized, “To establish ourselves as the leading provider, we must remain adaptable to new projects that align with the evolving demands of the UAV market. Partnering with UBIQ Aerospace on this ice protection initiative allows us to delve deeper into the icing challenges that many of our clients face.”
“We are dedicated to ensuring our propellers maintain optimal performance in all weather conditions.When UBIQ presented their innovative ice protection solutions, we recognized the importance of being part of this project,” Hruska concluded.
