After performing a few test on a twin-engine AEV the team has agreed to make some improvement. In prior tests, we came to realize that it’s a bit complicated controlling two engine and consumes a lot a higher power. Thus, upon the agreement made among team members, we decide to reduce the overall weight of the AEV in order to reduce power consumption. therefore, this does not come without a cost. Thus, we decided to test out with one propeller. We did a few more test to see if we are able to move the AEV with a single engine and it worked perfectly. We then again test it with a load attached to it and it worked but with a higher power consumption. Of course, the power consumption was expected, however, the propeller was spinning a lot at a higher rate and it sometimes comes off of the engine. Thus, we start searching to learn more and here are what we came across in our research…
Each aircraft with a single or twin engine has its own pros and cons. Thus, the first steps to finding the right type of aircraft for the mission that one planned are to determine the mission that the aircraft will be used, the budget, safety etc…
Thus, determining the mission is crucial and one must ask the following:
1.What are the maximum payload (weight) and the number of passengers you plan to carry on a regular basis?
2.Where is the AEV going to be operated? or what is the geography of the land like? Flat, Steep, Down Hill etc…
3.How long is it going to be operated for? How will it take to get from Point A to B?
4.What type of weather is it going to be operated in?
Once those questions are answered, one can proceed in determining what type of engine to use according to their need. Thus, as for our team, we have determined to use a single engine propeller driven AEV.
“Single engine turboprops typically offer not only payload-range capabilities far exceeding
those of their twin engine competition, but remarkable efficiency, versatility, simplicity,
and more to the point, safety, as well. This is because they are singles and not
burdened with the weight, drag, complexity, and vices of twin engines.” (SAFEST CLASS OF GENERAL AVIATION AIRCRAFT)
The next Image below shows what our team has decided to use for our Final Design.
As seen in the image, our AEV will have a single engine propeller. The New propeller is slightly bigger than the propeller provided by the instructor at the beginning of the class (3.16 inches Vs 4.25 inches). we have also made some changes in regard to its thickness and width (Width: 0.472 in and Thickness: 0.025 in Vs. Width: 0.567 in Thickness: 0.058 in). The change made will help compensate the eliminated engine and its propeller. This new propeller design allows the AEV to move back and forth with no limitation. It has been fantastic in carrying the load and be able to stop the AEV at the stopping position desired without falling out of the engine. As a result, it has helped the team reduce the power consumed and better control the AEV.
It consumes an average of 218.97 J and its weight is 231 grams (0.509 lb)
