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June 20, 2026Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology

Dynamic energy harvesting in unpowered flight: empirical flight mechanics and aerodynamic design implications

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Authors

GKGöksel Keskin

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Overview

Randomized trial reveals effective aerodynamic metrics for unpowered flight in elite soaring, suggesting new design approaches.

Key Points

  • This study aims to investigate the dynamic flight mechanics of unpowered aircraft during elite soaring and to improve aerodynamic design considerations.
  • Utilized Global Navigation Satellite System telemetry from World Gliding Championships to collect flight data.
  • Empirically quantified the dynamics of Standard Class sailplanes under competitive conditions.
  • Introduced the Dolphin Efficiency Index to measure energy extraction efficiency from atmospheric vertical motion.
  • Top-performing trajectories achieved effective lift-to-drag ratios exceeding 60:1, with peak performances nearly double the theoretical limits.
  • Kinematic analysis indicated elite pilots maintained circling radii of 120 to 160 m during thermalling to optimize climb rates.
  • Findings suggest a shift in aerodynamic design focus towards transient-state drag reduction and performance at moderate lift coefficients.

Cite This Study

Göksel Keskin (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6a362ebddb0793dc1a5366c1https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat-04-2026-0122
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Also Consider

Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context:

  1. 1Numerical Study on the Relationship between Lift-to-drag Ratio and Airfoil of Gliders in High-speed Cruising Conditions2024
  2. 2Dynamic Soaring Without Wind Speed Variation: Energy Harvesting Formula in Vector Form2025
  3. 3Analysis of Energy Budget Characteristics of Three‐Segment Wings in Wind Gradient Dynamic Soaring2026
  4. 4Aerodynamic Characterization of Glider Lift-to-drag Ratio and its Wing Shape2024
  5. 5Aerodynamic Design Optimization for Flying Wing Gliders Based on the Combination of Artificial Neural Networks and Genetic Algorithms2025