Numerical and Experimental Analysis of Aerodynamic Performance in Next-Generation Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)

Year 2025, Volume: 04, 43 - 55, 31.10.2025

Dıckson Davıd Olodu , Osagie Imevbore Ihenyen , Andrew Erameh

https://doi.org/10.54709/joebs.1670623

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive numerical and experimental analysis of the aerodynamic performance of next-generation fixed-wing Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to enhance design accuracy and operational efficiency. Using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations performed with ANSYS Fluent and Open FOAM, alongside experimental validations via wind tunnel testing and controlled flight trials, critical aerodynamic parameters such as lift, drag, pressure distribution, stability, and efficiency were investigated. The UAV prototype featured a 2.5 m wingspan, 0.4 m chord length, and a NACA 2412 airfoil.
CFD simulations utilized a pressure-based solver with the k-ω SST turbulence model and a 3.2 million-element hybrid mesh across a Reynolds number range of 1.2×10⁵–4.8×10⁵. Experimental tests were conducted at varying angles of attack (AoA) and airspeeds ranging from 10 to 40 m/s. Results revealed strong agreement between numerical and experimental data. Peak lift coefficients of 1.20 (CFD) and 1.18 (experimental) were observed at AoA = 15°, with corresponding drag coefficients of 0.09 and 0.095. Pressure coefficient distributions along the chord at AoA = 10° demonstrated near-identical profiles, confirming simulation reliability. Stall onset occurred at AoA = 20°, with flow separation initiating around 50% of the chord length.
Flight performance metrics showed a max range of 35 km (CFD) and 33.5 km (experimental), and glide ratios of 16 and 15.2, respectively. The study validates CFD as a robust predictive tool, bridging simulation and real-world performance, and offers a reliable methodology for optimizing UAV aerodynamic design for improved endurance, range, and overall flight efficiency.

Keywords

Aerodynamic Performance, , CFD Simulation, , Flight Testing, , Pressure Distribution, , Unmanned Aerial Vehicle.

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