CFD Comparison of Selected Distributed Propulsion Configurations for an Inverted-Joined-Wing Airplane

This paper addresses the aerodynamic performance of an inverted joined wing aircraft subject to propulsion subsystem modifications. The original aircraft, which suffers from poor pitching moment characteristics, is modified through propulsion redesign, with a focus on distributed propulsion. The extended design freedom was expected to offer a new perspective on aircraft performance. Several concepts were analyzed using high-fidelity Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). The study confirmed these expectations, significantly improving cruise performance. The electric ducted fans (EDF) configurations proved the most promising, due to their stronger influence on the stream around the wing. Conventional propellers, mounted at a distance from the wing, did not affect the aerodynamics as significantly. Further optimization of distributed propulsion layout and geometry is expected to improve the aircraft’s performance metrics.