Analysis Of An Electric-Propulsion Gimballed Prop-Rotor By Camrad II

Abstract

This paper presents a rapid conceptual design procedure for a 7,000 lb-class quad-tiltrotor vehicle, focusing on optimizing its aerodynamic design of the rotor blade. By conducting a parametric sweep of the key blade geometric parameters, including bilinear twist, rotor solidity, and taper, the study aims to reduce the vehicle gross weight and enhance performance. The aerodynamic performance of each rotor configuration is analyzed by CAMRAD II, and the results are integrated into the overall vehicle sizing task. The findings indicate a significant improvement in propulsive efficiency, leading to a 4.3% reduction in gross weight and an estimated range improvement of 5.7 nautical miles compared against the baseline configuration. This research will contribute to the ongoing development of efficient electrically-driven rotorcraft design by providing insights into the impact of rotor blade geometry on vehicle performance and weight.