NORD – Numerical Optimization Results Demonstrator

UAV platform NORD – Numerical Optimization Results Demonstrator was designed  to prove concept of designing an aircraft with numerical optimization, which uses constrains from flight dynamic stability. The approach assures very good aircraft stability and control characteristics.

Confirmed superior aircraft handling characteristics lead the PW MEiL team to continuation of the research program with scaled up aircraft BALTIC NORD. This gives opportunity to increase significantly operating range and payload. BALTIC NORD has modular configuration, which enables use of different kinds of propulsion system. The research team aims at exploring benefits of electric, piston and jet propulsion systems and possibilities for propulsion system integration optimization.

To present the results of the propulsion systems optimization on the flying aircraft the team plans to make flight cross over the Baltic sea.

Development potential:

Available data:

Due to the long-term development of the aircraft much valuable data about the aircraft was gathered:

- results of the CFD simulations

- aerodynamic characteristics measured at WUT MEiL aerodynamic tunnels, including forces from control surfaces

- gathered data from test flights

- precise and verified dynamic stability characteristics

Commercialization:

UAV NORD platforms have wide range of applicability. BALTIC NORD with limited range and payload can realize missions for UAV class under 25kg. If the takeoff mass isn’t limited it can fly with maximum mass up to 40kg.

The platforms can be used for surveillance missions and gather high quality data thanks to the capability of taking heavy payloads. The flying wing configuration, small front area and composite structure give opportunity for limited radar cross section.

Related articles:

• Mieloszyk J., Tarnowski A., Kowalik M., Perz R., Rzadkowski W., "Preliminary design of 3D printed fittings for UAV", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, 2019, Vol. 91 No. 5, pp. 756-760, doi: 101108/AEAT-07-2018-0182
• Mieloszyk J., Tarnowski A., Tomaszewski A., Goetzendorf-Grabowski T., “Validation of Flight Dynamic Stability Optimization Constrains With Flight Tests”, Aerospace Science and Technology, 2020, Vol. 106 doi:10.1016/j.ast.2020.106193.