Development of UAV rotor blades using RTM process

Abstract

Since 2010, KVE Composites Group (KVE) has been developing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) rotor blades (RB). Typically, these rotor blades are developed with limited budgets but still require a sound engineered design to prevent resonance of the rotor system, withstand limit loads and have long fatigue lives. Based on the structural design concept, KVE has developed a cost effective manufacturing process using Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM) to manufacture rotor blades. This single shot technique allows high manufacturing rates and also allows the engineer to design blades with a continuous reinforced leading edge and trailing edge laminate. The process also allows KVE to reliably manufacture blades with integrated balance weights which need only limited balancing afterwards. An important aspect of rotor blade development is the validation of design. KVE has developed in house testing tools for rotor blade characterization and structural testing.