Design and build portable fixed-wing VTOL aircraft with autonomous capability

Abstract

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) has been around for years and was used extensively in Aerial Filming, Mapping & Inspection. However, the capabilities of the UAV are often limited by the type of aircraft and the specialized skills required to pilot the UAV. They are generally categorized into two different groups, namely Rotary Wing (Multirotor) and Fixed-Wing. Multirotors under the Rotary Wing are generally precise in missions with Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) capabilities. However, it is less efficient due to the lift generated primarily from its rotors, resulting in a shorter range and endurance. Conversely, Fixed-Wing UAV generates its lift from its wing profile which enables the aircraft to fly further and longer. In spite of the operational advantages, it requires a sufficiently large and empty space for Conventional Take-Off and Landing (CTOL). Furthermore, Fixed-Wing UAV is generally larger and not able to be broken down into components which could result in assembly and portability issues. This has severely limited its operational capabilities such as a dense plantation. The innovative combination of both Vertical Take-off and Landing capability of Multirotor and the Long-Range of Fixed-Wing aircraft system is initiated. It enhances the performance of the UAVs in various ways such as the ability to hover, to transit between flight modes, high speed, long range, long endurance flight and to provide effective reconnaissance and support in time-critical situations.