Enhancement and optimization of the propulsion system modules of unmanned aerial vehicles

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are widely used in various industries. The present study focused on the optimization of the configuration of the vertical electric ducted fans (EDFs) of UAVs to enhance the vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) performance of UAVs, improve the configuration of their propulsion system, address the potential risk of exposed propellers, and reduce the space required between the fluid channel and the outlet in horizontal EDFs. A UAV aircraft module with a vertical EDF configuration was designed, following which structural analysis and flow field analysis were conducted using Ansys. The results of these analyses indicate that the overall flow of the designed module is smooth and stable without vortex generation and that the inlet and outlet air velocity performance of this module is excellent. The lift parameters of the rotor groups of the designed module are identical to each other; thus, the flight stability of the UAV in the air can be maintained, and the requirements for optimized design can be met. This study makes two contributions to the literature. First, the structural module of a vertical EDF propulsion system was proposed with an encapsulated impeller set hidden inside the vehicle structure to reduce the risk of propeller exposure. Second, the configuration of vertical EDF compared to the horizontal configuration shortens the airflow channel, which helps to stabilize the wind speed at the outlet, thereby increasing lifting capacity and propulsion efficiency.