Design and Analysis of Mini-UAV

The aim was to design and analyze a mini UAV for a surveillance mission. To achieve the final vehicle, a novel design methodology, based on cruise optimization was incorporated to carry out the design and development of mini UAV with AUW of max 2.5 kg, and the maximum wing span of 1.5 m. The methodology incorporates the design of the low Reynolds number wing, by optimizing the different disciplines aerodynamics, structures, propulsion, etc. The wing designed is optimized for the cruise flight, since the mission is for surveillance. The procedure also illustrates the major decisions made, during the development of the mini-UAV viz. airfoil selection, wing loading, aspect ratio wing plan-form shape etc.