@inproceedings{BallmannDafnisBraunetal.2006, author = {Ballmann, Josef and Dafnis, Athanasios and Braun, Carsten and Korsch, Helge and Reimerdes, Hans-G{\"u}nther and Braun, Carsten and Ballmann, Josef}, title = {The HIRENASD project: High Reynolds number aerostructural dynamics experiments in the European Transonic Wind Tunnel (ETW)}, series = {ICAS 2006 proceedings : 25th Congress of the International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences ; Hamburg, Germany, 3 - 8 September, 2006 : 25th International Congress of Aeronautical Sciences}, booktitle = {ICAS 2006 proceedings : 25th Congress of the International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences ; Hamburg, Germany, 3 - 8 September, 2006 : 25th International Congress of Aeronautical Sciences}, publisher = {Optimage}, address = {Edinburgh}, organization = {International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences (ICAS)}, isbn = {0-9533991-7-6}, pages = {Paper No. 2006-5.11.2}, year = {2006}, language = {en} } @article{BergmannMoehrenBraunetal.2023, author = {Bergmann, Ole and M{\"o}hren, Felix and Braun, Carsten and Janser, Frank}, title = {On the influence of elasticity on swept propeller noise}, series = {AIAA SCITECH 2023 Forum}, journal = {AIAA SCITECH 2023 Forum}, publisher = {AIAA}, address = {Reston, Va.}, doi = {10.2514/6.2023-0210}, year = {2023}, abstract = {High aerodynamic efficiency requires propellers with high aspect ratios, while propeller sweep potentially reduces noise. Propeller sweep and high aspect ratios increase elasticity and coupling of structural mechanics and aerodynamics, affecting the propeller performance and noise. Therefore, this paper analyzes the influence of elasticity on forward-swept, backward-swept, and unswept propellers in hover conditions. A reduced-order blade element momentum approach is coupled with a one-dimensional Timoshenko beam theory and Farassat's formulation 1A. The results of the aeroelastic simulation are used as input for the aeroacoustic calculation. The analysis shows that elasticity influences noise radiation because thickness and loading noise respond differently to deformations. In the case of the backward-swept propeller, the location of the maximum sound pressure level shifts forward by 0.5 °, while in the case of the forward-swept propeller, it shifts backward by 0.5 °. Therefore, aeroacoustic optimization requires the consideration of propeller deformation.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{ReimerBraunBallmann2006, author = {Reimer, Lars and Braun, Carsten and Ballmann, Josef}, title = {Analysis of the static and dynamic aero-structural response of an elastic swept wing model by direct aeroelastic simulation}, series = {ICAS 2006 proceedings : 25th Congress of the International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences ; Hamburg, Germany, 3 - 8 September, 2006 : 25th International Congress of Aeronautical Sciences}, booktitle = {ICAS 2006 proceedings : 25th Congress of the International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences ; Hamburg, Germany, 3 - 8 September, 2006 : 25th International Congress of Aeronautical Sciences}, publisher = {Optimage}, address = {Edinburgh}, organization = {International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences (ICAS)}, isbn = {0-9533991-7-6}, pages = {Paper No. 2006-10.3.3}, year = {2006}, language = {en} } @incollection{ReimerWellmerBraunetal.2009, author = {Reimer, Lars and Wellmer, Georg and Braun, Carsten and Ballmann, Josef}, title = {Computational methods for aero-structural analysis and optimisation of aircrafts based on reduced-order structural models}, series = {MEGADESIGN and MegaOpt - German initiatives for aerodynamic simulation and optimization in aircraft design. Results of the closing symposium of the MEGADESIGN and MegaOpt projects, Braunschweig, Germany, 23 - 24 May, 2007 / Norbert Kroll ... (Eds.) Notes on numerical fluid mechanics and multidisciplinary design. Vol. 107}, booktitle = {MEGADESIGN and MegaOpt - German initiatives for aerodynamic simulation and optimization in aircraft design. Results of the closing symposium of the MEGADESIGN and MegaOpt projects, Braunschweig, Germany, 23 - 24 May, 2007 / Norbert Kroll ... (Eds.) Notes on numerical fluid mechanics and multidisciplinary design. Vol. 107}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Berlin}, isbn = {978-3-642-04092-4}, pages = {135 -- 150}, year = {2009}, abstract = {In this part of the MEGADESIGN project, aeroelastic effects are introduced into the aerodynamic analysis of aircrafts by coupling DLR's flow solvers TAU and FLOWer to a Timoshenko-beam solver. The emerging aeroelastic solvers and a method for the automatic identification of Timoshenko-beam models for wing-box structures were integrated into a simulation environment enabling the combined optimisation of aerodynamic wing shape and structure.}, language = {en} } @article{MoehrenBergmannJanseretal.2024, author = {M{\"o}hren, Felix and Bergmann, Ole and Janser, Frank and Braun, Carsten}, title = {Assessment of structural mechanical effects related to torsional deformations of propellers}, series = {CEAS Aeronautical Journal}, journal = {CEAS Aeronautical Journal}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Wien}, issn = {1869-5590 (eISSN)}, doi = {10.1007/s13272-024-00737-7}, pages = {22 Seiten}, year = {2024}, abstract = {Lifting propellers are of increasing interest for Advanced Air Mobility. All propellers and rotors are initially twisted beams, showing significant extension-twist coupling and centrifugal twisting. Torsional deformations severely impact aerodynamic performance. This paper presents a novel approach to assess different reasons for torsional deformations. A reduced-order model runs large parameter sweeps with algebraic formulations and numerical solution procedures. Generic beams represent three different propeller types for General Aviation, Commercial Aviation, and Advanced Air Mobility. Simulations include solid and hollow cross-sections made of aluminum, steel, and carbon fiber-reinforced polymer. The investigation shows that centrifugal twisting moments depend on both the elastic and initial twist. The determination of the centrifugal twisting moment solely based on the initial twist suffers from errors exceeding 5\% in some cases. The nonlinear parts of the torsional rigidity do not significantly impact the overall torsional rigidity for the investigated propeller types. The extension-twist coupling related to the initial and elastic twist in combination with tension forces significantly impacts the net cross-sectional torsional loads. While the increase in torsional stiffness due to initial twist contributes to the overall stiffness for General and Commercial Aviation propellers, its contribution to the lift propeller's stiffness is limited. The paper closes with the presentation of approximations for each effect identified as significant. Numerical evaluations are necessary to determine each effect for inhomogeneous cross-sections made of anisotropic material.}, language = {en} } @article{NeuJanserKhatibietal.2016, author = {Neu, Eugen and Janser, Frank and Khatibi, Akbar A. and Braun, Carsten and Orifici, Adrian C.}, title = {Operational Modal Analysis of a wing excited by transonic flow}, series = {Aerospace Science and Technology}, volume = {49}, journal = {Aerospace Science and Technology}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {1270-9638}, doi = {10.1016/j.ast.2015.11.032}, pages = {73 -- 79}, year = {2016}, abstract = {Operational Modal Analysis (OMA) is a promising candidate for flutter testing and Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) of aircraft wings that are passively excited by wind loads. However, no studies have been published where OMA is tested in transonic flows, which is the dominant condition for large civil aircraft and is characterized by complex and unique aerodynamic phenomena. We use data from the HIRENASD large-scale wind tunnel experiment to automatically extract modal parameters from an ambiently excited wing operated in the transonic regime using two OMA methods: Stochastic Subspace Identification (SSI) and Frequency Domain Decomposition (FDD). The system response is evaluated based on accelerometer measurements. The excitation is investigated from surface pressure measurements. The forcing function is shown to be non-white, non-stationary and contaminated by narrow-banded transonic disturbances. All these properties violate fundamental OMA assumptions about the forcing function. Despite this, all physical modes in the investigated frequency range were successfully identified, and in addition transonic pressure waves were identified as physical modes as well. The SSI method showed superior identification capabilities for the investigated case. The investigation shows that complex transonic flows can interfere with OMA. This can make existing approaches for modal tracking unsuitable for their application to aircraft wings operated in the transonic flight regime. Approaches to separate the true physical modes from the transonic disturbances are discussed.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{ThomaFisherBertrandetal.2020, author = {Thoma, Andreas and Fisher, Alex and Bertrand, Olivier and Braun, Carsten}, title = {Evaluation of possible flight strategies for close object evasion from bumblebee experiments}, series = {Living Machines 2020: Biomimetic and Biohybrid Systems}, booktitle = {Living Machines 2020: Biomimetic and Biohybrid Systems}, editor = {Vouloutsi, Vasiliki and Mura, Anna and Tauber, Falk and Speck, Thomas and Prescott, Tony J. and Verschure, Paul F. M. J.}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Cham}, isbn = {978-3-030-64312-6}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-030-64313-3_34}, pages = {354 -- 365}, year = {2020}, language = {en} } @article{GoettenHavermannBraunetal.2020, author = {G{\"o}tten, Falk and Havermann, Marc and Braun, Carsten and Marino, Matthew and Bil, Cees}, title = {Airfoil drag at low-to-medium reynolds numbers: A novel estimation method}, series = {AIAA Journal}, volume = {58}, journal = {AIAA Journal}, number = {7}, publisher = {AIAA}, address = {Reston, Va.}, issn = {1533-385X}, doi = {10.2514/1.J058983}, pages = {2791 -- 2805}, year = {2020}, abstract = {This paper presents a novel method for airfoil drag estimation at Reynolds numbers between 4×10⁵ and 4×10⁶. The novel method is based on a systematic study of 40 airfoils applying over 600 numerical simulations and considering natural transition. The influence of the airfoil thickness-to-chord ratio, camber, and freestream Reynolds number on both friction and pressure drag is analyzed in detail. Natural transition significantly affects drag characteristics and leads to distinct drag minima for different Reynolds numbers and thickness-to-chord ratios. The results of the systematic study are used to develop empirical correlations that can accurately predict an airfoil drag at low-lift conditions. The new approach estimates a transition location based on airfoil thickness-to-chord ratio, camber, and Reynolds number. It uses the transition location in a mixed laminar-turbulent skin-friction calculation, and corrects the skin-friction coefficient for separation effects. Pressure drag is estimated separately based on correlations of thickness-to-chord ratio, camber, and Reynolds number. The novel method shows excellent accuracy when compared with wind-tunnel measurements of multiple airfoils. It is easily integrable into existing aircraft design environments and is highly beneficial in the conceptual design stage.}, language = {en} } @article{ThomaThomessenGardietal.2023, author = {Thoma, Andreas and Thomessen, Karolin and Gardi, Alessandro and Fisher, A. and Braun, Carsten}, title = {Prioritising paths: An improved cost function for local path planning for UAV in medical applications}, series = {The Aeronautical Journal}, journal = {The Aeronautical Journal}, number = {First View}, publisher = {Cambridge University Press}, address = {Cambridge}, issn = {0001-9240 (Print)}, doi = {10.1017/aer.2023.68}, pages = {1 -- 18}, year = {2023}, abstract = {Even the shortest flight through unknown, cluttered environments requires reliable local path planning algorithms to avoid unforeseen obstacles. The algorithm must evaluate alternative flight paths and identify the best path if an obstacle blocks its way. Commonly, weighted sums are used here. This work shows that weighted Chebyshev distances and factorial achievement scalarising functions are suitable alternatives to weighted sums if combined with the 3DVFH* local path planning algorithm. Both methods considerably reduce the failure probability of simulated flights in various environments. The standard 3DVFH* uses a weighted sum and has a failure probability of 50\% in the test environments. A factorial achievement scalarising function, which minimises the worst combination of two out of four objective functions, reaches a failure probability of 26\%; A weighted Chebyshev distance, which optimises the worst objective, has a failure probability of 30\%. These results show promise for further enhancements and to support broader applicability.}, language = {en} } @techreport{ReimerWellmerBraunetal.2007, author = {Reimer, Lars and Wellmer, Georg and Braun, Carsten and Ballmann, Josef}, title = {Aerodynamische Simulation und Optimierung in der Flugzeugentwicklung. Teilvorhabenbezeichnung: Aerodynamische Optimierung unter Ber{\"u}cksichtigung von Struktureigenschaften auf der Basis reduzierter Strukturmodelle, Verbundvorhaben MEGADESIGN. Schlussbericht. Berichtszeitraum: 01.06.2003-31.05.2007. BMBF-Forschungsbericht}, pages = {41 S.: Ill., graph. Darst.}, year = {2007}, language = {de} } @article{KochBoehnischVerdoncketal.2024, author = {Koch, Christopher and B{\"o}hnisch, Nils and Verdonck, Hendrik and Hach, Oliver and Braun, Carsten}, title = {Comparison of unsteady low- and mid-fidelity propeller aerodynamic methods for whirl flutter applications}, series = {Applied Sciences}, volume = {14}, journal = {Applied Sciences}, number = {2}, publisher = {MDPI}, address = {Basel}, issn = {2076-3417}, doi = {10.3390/app14020850}, pages = {1 -- 28}, year = {2024}, abstract = {Aircraft configurations with propellers have been drawing more attention in recent times, partly due to new propulsion concepts based on hydrogen fuel cells and electric motors. These configurations are prone to whirl flutter, which is an aeroelastic instability affecting airframes with elastically supported propellers. It commonly needs to be mitigated already during the design phase of such configurations, requiring, among other things, unsteady aerodynamic transfer functions for the propeller. However, no comprehensive assessment of unsteady propeller aerodynamics for aeroelastic analysis is available in the literature. This paper provides a detailed comparison of nine different low- to mid-fidelity aerodynamic methods, demonstrating their impact on linear, unsteady aerodynamics, as well as whirl flutter stability prediction. Quasi-steady and unsteady methods for blade lift with or without coupling to blade element momentum theory are evaluated and compared to mid-fidelity potential flow solvers (UPM and DUST) and classical, derivative-based methods. Time-domain identification of frequency-domain transfer functions for the unsteady propeller hub loads is used to compare the different methods. Predictions of the minimum required pylon stiffness for stability show good agreement among the mid-fidelity methods. The differences in the stability predictions for the low-fidelity methods are higher. Most methods studied yield a more unstable system than classical, derivative-based whirl flutter analysis, indicating that the use of more sophisticated aerodynamic modeling techniques might be required for accurate whirl flutter prediction.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{ReimerBraunChenetal.2007, author = {Reimer, Lars and Braun, Carsten and Chen, B.-H. and Ballmann, Josef}, title = {Computational aeroelastic analysis and design of the HIRENASD wind tunnel wing model and tests}, series = {Proceedings / IFASD 2007, CEAS/AIAA/KTH International Forum on Aeroelasticity and Structural Dynamics : June 18 - 21, 2007, Stockholm, Sweden}, booktitle = {Proceedings / IFASD 2007, CEAS/AIAA/KTH International Forum on Aeroelasticity and Structural Dynamics : June 18 - 21, 2007, Stockholm, Sweden}, publisher = {KTH}, address = {Stockholm}, pages = {1 CD-ROM}, year = {2007}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{RingsLudowicyFingeretal.2019, author = {Rings, Ren{\´e} and Ludowicy, Jonas and Finger, Felix and Braun, Carsten and Bil, Cees}, title = {Sensitivity Analysis of General Aviation Aircraft with Parallel Hybrid-Electric Propulsion Systems}, series = {Asia Pacific International Symposium on Aerospace Technology. APISAT 2019}, booktitle = {Asia Pacific International Symposium on Aerospace Technology. APISAT 2019}, pages = {14 Seiten}, year = {2019}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{SchildtMarzoccaBraunetal.2019, author = {Schildt, Philipp and Marzocca, Pier and Braun, Carsten and Dahmann, Peter and Keimer, Jona}, title = {Effects of atmospheric excitation on vibration based condition monitoring methods for hybrid-electric aircraft propulsion systems}, series = {AIAC 2018: 18th Australian International Aerospace Congress: HUMS - 11th Defence Science and Technology (DST) International Conference on Health and Usage Monitoring (HUMS 2019): ISSFD - 27th International Symposium on Space Flight Dynamics (ISSFD)}, booktitle = {AIAC 2018: 18th Australian International Aerospace Congress: HUMS - 11th Defence Science and Technology (DST) International Conference on Health and Usage Monitoring (HUMS 2019): ISSFD - 27th International Symposium on Space Flight Dynamics (ISSFD)}, isbn = {9781925627213}, pages = {923 -- 928}, year = {2019}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{FingerGoettenBraunetal.2019, author = {Finger, Felix and G{\"o}tten, Falk and Braun, Carsten and Bil, Cees}, title = {Mass, Primary Energy, and Cost - The Impact of Optimization Objectives on the Initial Sizing of Hybrid-Electric General Aviation Aircraft}, series = {Deutscher Luft- und Raumfahrtkongress 2019, DLRK 2019. Darmstadt, Germany}, booktitle = {Deutscher Luft- und Raumfahrtkongress 2019, DLRK 2019. Darmstadt, Germany}, doi = {10.25967/490012}, pages = {1 -- 17}, year = {2019}, language = {en} } @techreport{ThomaLaarmannMerkensetal.2020, author = {Thoma, Andreas and Laarmann, Lukas and Merkens, Torsten and Franzke, Till and M{\"o}hren, Felix and Buttermann, Lilly and van der Weem, Dirk and Fischer, Maximilian and Misch, Philipp and B{\"o}hme, Mirijam and R{\"o}th, Thilo and Hebel, Christoph and Ritz, Thomas and Franke, Marina and Braun, Carsten}, title = {Entwicklung eines intermodalen Mobilit{\"a}tskonzeptes f{\"u}r die Pilotregion NRW/Rhein-Maas Euregio und Schaffung voller Kundenakzeptanz durch Transfer von Standards aus dem PKW-Bereich auf ein Flugtaxi : Schlussbericht : Projektakronym: SkyCab (Kategorie B) : Laufzeit in Monaten: 6 : Hauptthema: Kategorie B: Innovative Ideen mit Bezug zu UAS/Flugtaxis}, publisher = {FH Aachen}, address = {Aachen}, pages = {97 Seiten}, year = {2020}, language = {de} } @inproceedings{GoettenFingerMarinoetal.2019, author = {G{\"o}tten, Falk and Finger, Felix and Marino, Matthew and Bil, Cees and Havermann, Marc and Braun, Carsten}, title = {A review of guidelines and best practices for subsonic aerodynamic simulations using RANS CFD}, series = {Asia-Pacific International Symposium on Aerospace Technology (APISAT), At Gold Coast, Australia, 04. - 06. Dezember 2019}, booktitle = {Asia-Pacific International Symposium on Aerospace Technology (APISAT), At Gold Coast, Australia, 04. - 06. Dezember 2019}, isbn = {978-1-925627-40-4}, pages = {19 Seiten}, year = {2019}, language = {de} } @incollection{BraunBouckeBallmann2005, author = {Braun, Carsten and Boucke, Alexander and Ballmann, Josef}, title = {Numerical study of the influence of dynamic pressure and deflected ailerons on the deformation of a high speed wing model}, series = {High performance computing in science and engineering '04. Transactions of the High Performance Computing Center Stuttgart (HLRS) 2004 / Eds.: Egon Krause ...}, booktitle = {High performance computing in science and engineering '04. Transactions of the High Performance Computing Center Stuttgart (HLRS) 2004 / Eds.: Egon Krause ...}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Berlin}, isbn = {3-540-22943-4}, pages = {225 -- 236}, year = {2005}, language = {en} } @article{GoettenHavermannBraunetal.2021, author = {G{\"o}tten, Falk and Havermann, Marc and Braun, Carsten and Marino, Matthew and Bil, Cees}, title = {Aerodynamic Investigations of UAV Sensor Turrets - A Combined Wind-tunnel and CFD Approach}, series = {SciTech 2021, AIAA SciTech Forum, online, WW, Jan 11-15, 2021}, journal = {SciTech 2021, AIAA SciTech Forum, online, WW, Jan 11-15, 2021}, publisher = {AIAA}, address = {Reston, Va.}, doi = {10.2514/6.2021-1535}, pages = {1 -- 12}, year = {2021}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{HippeFingerGoettenetal.2020, author = {Hippe, Jonas and Finger, Felix and G{\"o}tten, Falk and Braun, Carsten}, title = {Propulsion System Qualification of a 25 kg VTOL-UAV: Hover Performance of Single and Coaxial Rotors and Wind-Tunnel Experiments on Cruise Propellers}, series = {Deutscher Luft- und Raumfahrtkongress - DLRK 2020}, booktitle = {Deutscher Luft- und Raumfahrtkongress - DLRK 2020}, year = {2020}, abstract = {This paper presents an approach for UAV propulsion system qualification and validation on the example of FH Aachen's 25 kg cargo UAV "PhoenAIX". Thrust and power consumption are the most important aspects of a propulsion system's layout. In the initial design phase, manufacturers' data has to be trusted, but the validation of components is an essential step in the design process. This process is presented in this paper. The vertical takeoff system is designed for efficient hover; therefore, performance under static conditions is paramount. Because an octo-copter layout with coaxial rotors is considered, the impact of this design choice is analyzed. Data on thrust, voltage stability, power consumption, rotational speed, and temperature development of motors and controllers are presented for different rotors. The fixed-wing propulsion system is designed for efficient cruise flight. At the same time, a certain static thrust has to be provided, as the aircraft needs to accelerate to cruise speed. As for the hover-system, data on different propellers is compared. The measurements were taken for static conditions, as well as for different inflow velocities, using the FH-Aachen's wind-tunnel.}, language = {en} } @article{GoettenFingerHavermannetal.2021, author = {G{\"o}tten, Falk and Finger, Felix and Havermann, Marc and Braun, Carsten and Marino, M. and Bil, C.}, title = {Full configuration drag estimation of short-to-medium range fixed-wing UAVs and its impact on initial sizing optimization}, series = {CEAS Aeronautical Journal}, volume = {12}, journal = {CEAS Aeronautical Journal}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Berlin}, issn = {1869-5590 (Online)}, doi = {10.1007/s13272-021-00522-w}, pages = {589 -- 603}, year = {2021}, abstract = {The paper presents the derivation of a new equivalent skin friction coefficient for estimating the parasitic drag of short-to-medium range fixed-wing unmanned aircraft. The new coefficient is derived from an aerodynamic analysis of ten different unmanned aircraft used for surveillance, reconnaissance, and search and rescue missions. The aircraft is simulated using a validated unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier Stokes approach. The UAV's parasitic drag is significantly influenced by the presence of miscellaneous components like fixed landing gears or electro-optical sensor turrets. These components are responsible for almost half of an unmanned aircraft's total parasitic drag. The new equivalent skin friction coefficient accounts for these effects and is significantly higher compared to other aircraft categories. It is used to initially size an unmanned aircraft for a typical reconnaissance mission. The improved parasitic drag estimation yields a much heavier unmanned aircraft when compared to the sizing results using available drag data of manned aircraft.}, language = {en} } @book{Braun2007, author = {Braun, Carsten}, title = {Ein modulares Verfahren f{\"u}r die numerische aeroelastische Analyse von Luftfahrzeugen}, pages = {VI, 199 S.}, year = {2007}, abstract = {Aachen, Techn. Hochschule, Diss., 2007}, language = {de} } @inproceedings{GoettenFingerHavermannetal.2020, author = {G{\"o}tten, Falk and Finger, Felix and Havermann, Marc and Braun, Carsten and Marino, Matthew and Bil, Cees}, title = {Full Configuration Drag Estimation of Small-to-Medium Range UAVs and its Impact on Initial Sizing Optimization}, series = {CEAS Aeronautical Journal}, volume = {12}, booktitle = {CEAS Aeronautical Journal}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Wien}, issn = {1869-5590}, doi = {10.1007/s13272-021-00522-w}, pages = {589 -- 603}, year = {2020}, abstract = {The paper presents the derivation of a new equivalent skin friction coefficient for estimating the parasitic drag of short-to-medium range fixed-wing unmanned aircraft. The new coefficient is derived from an aerodynamic analysis of ten different unmanned aircraft used on surveillance, reconnaissance, and search and rescue missions. The aircraft are simulated using a validated unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier Stokes approach. The UAV's parasitic drag is significantly influenced by the presence of miscellaneous components like fixed landing gears or electro-optical sensor turrets. These components are responsible for almost half of an unmanned aircraft's total parasitic drag. The new equivalent skin friction coefficient accounts for these effects and is significantly higher compared to other aircraft categories. It is used to initially size an unmanned aircraft for a typical reconnaissance mission. The improved parasitic drag estimation yields a much heavier unmanned aircraft when compared to the sizing results using available drag data of manned aircraft.}, language = {en} } @article{FingerBilBraun2019, author = {Finger, Felix and Bil, Cees and Braun, Carsten}, title = {Initial Sizing Methodology for Hybrid-Electric General Aviation Aircraft}, series = {Journal of Aircraft}, volume = {57}, journal = {Journal of Aircraft}, number = {2}, issn = {1533-3868}, doi = {10.2514/1.C035428}, pages = {245 -- 255}, year = {2019}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{GoettenFingerHavermannetal.2019, author = {G{\"o}tten, Falk and Finger, Felix and Havermann, Marc and Braun, Carsten and Marino, Matthew and Bil, Cees}, title = {A highly automated method for simulating airfoil characteristics at low Reynolds number using a RANS - transition approach}, series = {Deutscher Luft- und Raumfahrtkongress - DLRK 2019. Darmstadt, Germany}, booktitle = {Deutscher Luft- und Raumfahrtkongress - DLRK 2019. Darmstadt, Germany}, doi = {10.25967/490026}, pages = {1 -- 14}, year = {2019}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{GoettenFingerBraunetal.2019, author = {G{\"o}tten, Falk and Finger, Felix and Braun, Carsten and Havermann, Marc and Bil, C. and Gomez, F.}, title = {Empirical Correlations for Geometry Build-Up of Fixed Wing Unmanned Air Vehicles}, series = {APISAT 2018: The Proceedings of the 2018 Asia-Pacific International Symposium on Aerospace Technology (APISAT 2018)}, booktitle = {APISAT 2018: The Proceedings of the 2018 Asia-Pacific International Symposium on Aerospace Technology (APISAT 2018)}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Singapore}, isbn = {978-981-13-3305-7}, doi = {10.1007/978-981-13-3305-7_109}, pages = {1365 -- 1381}, year = {2019}, abstract = {The results of a statistical investigation of 42 fixed-wing, small to medium sized (20 kg-1000 kg) reconnaissance unmanned air vehicles (UAVs) are presented. Regression analyses are used to identify correlations of the most relevant geometry dimensions with the UAV's maximum take-off mass. The findings allow an empirical based geometry-build up for a complete unmanned aircraft by referring to its take-off mass only. This provides a bridge between very early design stages (initial sizing) and the later determination of shapes and dimensions. The correlations might be integrated into a UAV sizing environment and allow designers to implement more sophisticated drag and weight estimation methods in this process. Additional information on correlation factors for a rough drag estimation methodology indicate how this technique can significantly enhance the accuracy of early design iterations.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{FingerGoettenBraunetal.2019, author = {Finger, Felix and G{\"o}tten, Falk and Braun, Carsten and Bil, Cees}, title = {Cost Estimation Methods for Hybrid-Electric General Aviation Aircraft}, series = {Asia Pacific International Symposium on Aerospace Technology. APISAT 2019}, booktitle = {Asia Pacific International Symposium on Aerospace Technology. APISAT 2019}, pages = {1 -- 13}, year = {2019}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{FingerBraunBil2020, author = {Finger, Felix and Braun, Carsten and Bil, Cees}, title = {Comparative assessment of parallel-hybrid-electric propulsion systems for four different aircraft}, series = {AIAA Scitech 2020 Forum}, booktitle = {AIAA Scitech 2020 Forum}, doi = {10.2514/6.2020-1502}, pages = {15 Seiten}, year = {2020}, abstract = {As battery technologies advance, electric propulsion concepts are on the edge of disrupting aviation markets. However, until electric energy storage systems are ready to allow fully electric aircraft, the combination of combustion engine and electric motor as a hybrid-electric propulsion system seems to be a promising intermediate solution. Consequently, the design space for future aircraft is expanded considerably, as serial-hybrid-, parallel-hybrid-, fully-electric, and conventional propulsion systems must all be considered. While the best propulsion system depends on a multitude of requirements and considerations, trends can be observed for certain types of aircraft and certain types of missions. This paper provides insight into some factors that drive a new design towards either conventional or hybrid propulsion systems. General aviation aircraft, VTOL air taxis, transport aircraft, and UAVs are chosen as case studies. Typical missions for each class are considered, and the aircraft are analyzed regarding their take-off mass and primary energy consumption. For these case studies, a high-level approach is chosen, using an initial sizing methodology. Results indicate that hybrid-electric propulsion systems should be considered if the propulsion system is sized by short-duration power constraints (e.g. take-off, climb). However, if the propulsion system is sized by a continuous power requirement (e.g. cruise), hybrid-electric systems offer hardly any benefit.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{FingerBraunBil2019, author = {Finger, Felix and Braun, Carsten and Bil, Cees}, title = {Impact of Engine Failure Constraints on the Initial Sizing of Hybrid-Electric GA Aircraft}, series = {AIAA Scitech 2019 Forum}, booktitle = {AIAA Scitech 2019 Forum}, doi = {10.2514/6.2019-1812}, year = {2019}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{KapoorBollerGiljohannetal.2010, author = {Kapoor, Hrshi and Boller, Christian and Giljohann, Sebastian and Braun, Carsten}, title = {Strategies for structural health monitoring implementation potential assessment in aircraft operational life extension considerations}, series = {2nd International Symposium on NDT in Aerospace : November 22-24, 2010 Hamburg, Germany}, booktitle = {2nd International Symposium on NDT in Aerospace : November 22-24, 2010 Hamburg, Germany}, publisher = {Dt. Gesellschaft f{\"u}r Zerst{\"o}rungsfreie Pr{\"u}fung}, address = {Berlin}, organization = {Deutsche Gesellschaft f{\"u}r Zerst{\"o}rungsfreie Pr{\"u}fung}, isbn = {978-3-940283-28-3}, pages = {9}, year = {2010}, language = {en} } @incollection{BraunBouckeHankeetal.2003, author = {Braun, Carsten and Boucke, Alexander and Hanke, M. and Karavas, Alexandros and Ballmann, Josef}, title = {Prediction of the model deformation of a high speed transport aircraft type wing by direct aeroelastic simulation}, series = {High performance computing in science and engineering '03. Transactions of the High Performance Computing Center Stuttgart (HLRS) 2003 / Eds.: Egon Krause ...}, booktitle = {High performance computing in science and engineering '03. Transactions of the High Performance Computing Center Stuttgart (HLRS) 2003 / Eds.: Egon Krause ...}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Berlin}, isbn = {978-3-540-40850-5}, pages = {331 -- 342}, year = {2003}, language = {de} } @article{GoettenHavermannBraunetal.2020, author = {G{\"o}tten, Falk and Havermann, Marc and Braun, Carsten and Marino, Matthew and Bil, Cees}, title = {Improved Form Factor for Drag Estimation of Fuselages with Various Cross Sections}, series = {Journal of Aircraft}, journal = {Journal of Aircraft}, publisher = {AIAA}, address = {Reston, Va.}, issn = {1533-3868}, doi = {10.2514/1.C036032}, pages = {1 -- 13}, year = {2020}, abstract = {The paper presents an aerodynamic investigation of 70 different streamlined bodies with fineness ratios ranging from 2 to 10. The bodies are chosen to idealize both unmanned and small manned aircraft fuselages and feature cross-sectional shapes that vary from circular to quadratic. The study focuses on friction and pressure drag in dependency of the individual body's fineness ratio and cross section. The drag forces are normalized with the respective body's wetted area to comply with an empirical drag estimation procedure. Although the friction drag coefficient then stays rather constant for all bodies, their pressure drag coefficients decrease with an increase in fineness ratio. Referring the pressure drag coefficient to the bodies' cross-sectional areas shows a distinct pressure drag minimum at a fineness ratio of about three. The pressure drag of bodies with a quadratic cross section is generally higher than for bodies of revolution. The results are used to derive an improved form factor that can be employed in a classic empirical drag estimation method. The improved formulation takes both the fineness ratio and cross-sectional shape into account. It shows superior accuracy in estimating streamlined body drag when compared with experimental data and other form factor formulations of the literature.}, language = {en} } @incollection{ReimerBraunBallmann2007, author = {Reimer, Lars and Braun, Carsten and Ballmann, Josef}, title = {Computational study of the aeroelastic equilibrium configuration of a swept wind tunnel wing model in subsonic flow}, series = {High performance computing in science and engineering '06. Transactions of the High Performance Computing Center Stuttgart (HLRS) 2006 / Wolfgang E. Nagel ... Eds.}, booktitle = {High performance computing in science and engineering '06. Transactions of the High Performance Computing Center Stuttgart (HLRS) 2006 / Wolfgang E. Nagel ... Eds.}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Berlin [u.a.]}, isbn = {978-3-540-36165-7}, pages = {421 -- 434}, year = {2007}, abstract = {In the Collaborative Research Center SFB 401 at RWTH Aachen University, the numerical aeroelastic method SOFIA for direct numerical aeroelastic simulation is being progressively developed. Numerical results obtained by applying SOFIA were compared with measured data of static and dynamic aeroelastic wind tunnel tests for an elastic swept wing in subsonic flow.}, language = {en} } @article{LaarmannThomaMischetal.2023, author = {Laarmann, Lukas and Thoma, Andreas and Misch, Philipp and R{\"o}th, Thilo and Braun, Carsten and Watkins, Simon and Fard, Mohammad}, title = {Automotive safety approach for future eVTOL vehicles}, series = {CEAS Aeronautical Journal}, journal = {CEAS Aeronautical Journal}, publisher = {Springer Nature}, issn = {1869-5590 (Online)}, doi = {10.1007/s13272-023-00655-0}, pages = {11 Seiten}, year = {2023}, abstract = {The eVTOL industry is a rapidly growing mass market expected to start in 2024. eVTOL compete, caused by their predicted missions, with ground-based transportation modes, including mainly passenger cars. Therefore, the automotive and classical aircraft design process is reviewed and compared to highlight advantages for eVTOL development. A special focus is on ergonomic comfort and safety. The need for further investigation of eVTOL's crashworthiness is outlined by, first, specifying the relevance of passive safety via accident statistics and customer perception analysis; second, comparing the current state of regulation and certification; and third, discussing the advantages of integral safety and applying the automotive safety approach for eVTOL development. Integral safety links active and passive safety, while the automotive safety approach means implementing standardized mandatory full-vehicle crash tests for future eVTOL. Subsequently, possible crash impact conditions are analyzed, and three full-vehicle crash load cases are presented.}, language = {en} } @article{BoehnischBraunMuscarelloetal.2024, author = {B{\"o}hnisch, Nils and Braun, Carsten and Muscarello, Vincenzo and Marzocca, Pier}, title = {About the wing and whirl flutter of a slender wing-propeller system}, series = {Journal of Aircraft}, journal = {Journal of Aircraft}, publisher = {AIAA}, address = {Reston, Va.}, issn = {1533-3868}, doi = {10.2514/1.C037542}, pages = {1 -- 14}, year = {2024}, abstract = {Next-generation aircraft designs often incorporate multiple large propellers attached along the wingspan (distributed electric propulsion), leading to highly flexible dynamic systems that can exhibit aeroelastic instabilities. This paper introduces a validated methodology to investigate the aeroelastic instabilities of wing-propeller systems and to understand the dynamic mechanism leading to wing and whirl flutter and transition from one to the other. Factors such as nacelle positions along the wing span and chord and its propulsion system mounting stiffness are considered. Additionally, preliminary design guidelines are proposed for flutter-free wing-propeller systems applicable to novel aircraft designs. The study demonstrates how the critical speed of the wing-propeller systems is influenced by the mounting stiffness and propeller position. Weak mounting stiffnesses result in whirl flutter, while hard mounting stiffnesses lead to wing flutter. For the latter, the position of the propeller along the wing span may change the wing mode shapes and thus the flutter mechanism. Propeller positions closer to the wing tip enhance stability, but pusher configurations are more critical due to the mass distribution behind the elastic axis.}, language = {en} } @article{BoehnischBraunMuscarelloetal.2023, author = {B{\"o}hnisch, Nils and Braun, Carsten and Muscarello, Vincenzo and Marzocca, Pier}, title = {A sensitivity study on aeroelastic instabilities of slender wings with a large propeller}, series = {AIAA SCITECH 2023 Forum}, journal = {AIAA SCITECH 2023 Forum}, publisher = {AIAA}, address = {Reston, Va.}, doi = {10.2514/6.2023-1893}, pages = {1 -- 14}, year = {2023}, abstract = {Next-generation aircraft designs often incorporate multiple large propellers attached along the wingspan. These highly flexible dynamic systems can exhibit uncommon aeroelastic instabilities, which should be carefully investigated to ensure safe operation. The interaction between the propeller and the wing is of particular importance. It is known that whirl flutter is stabilized by wing motion and wing aerodynamics. This paper investigates the effect of a propeller onto wing flutter as a function of span position and mounting stiffness between the propeller and wing. The analysis of a comparison between a tractor and pusher configuration has shown that the coupled system is more stable than the standalone wing for propeller positions near the wing tip for both configurations. The wing fluttermechanism is mostly affected by the mass of the propeller and the resulting change in eigenfrequencies of the wing. For very weak mounting stiffnesses, whirl flutter occurs, which was shown to be stabilized compared to a standalone propeller due to wing motion. On the other hand, the pusher configuration is, as to be expected, the more critical configuration due to the attached mass behind the elastic axis.}, language = {de} } @inproceedings{ThomaStiemerBraunetal.2023, author = {Thoma, Andreas and Stiemer, Luc and Braun, Carsten and Fisher, Alex and Gardi, Alessandro G.}, title = {Potential of hybrid neural network local path planner for small UAV in urban environments}, series = {AIAA SCITECH 2023 Forum}, booktitle = {AIAA SCITECH 2023 Forum}, publisher = {AIAA}, address = {Reston, Va.}, doi = {10.2514/6.2023-2359}, pages = {13 Seiten}, year = {2023}, abstract = {This work proposes a hybrid algorithm combining an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) with a conventional local path planner to navigate UAVs efficiently in various unknown urban environments. The proposed method of a Hybrid Artificial Neural Network Avoidance System is called HANNAS. The ANN analyses a video stream and classifies the current environment. This information about the current Environment is used to set several control parameters of a conventional local path planner, the 3DVFH*. The local path planner then plans the path toward a specific goal point based on distance data from a depth camera. We trained and tested a state-of-the-art image segmentation algorithm, PP-LiteSeg. The proposed HANNAS method reaches a failure probability of 17\%, which is less than half the failure probability of the baseline and around half the failure probability of an improved, bio-inspired version of the 3DVFH*. The proposed HANNAS method does not show any disadvantages regarding flight time or flight distance.}, language = {en} } @incollection{ReimerBraunWellmeretal.2010, author = {Reimer, Lars and Braun, Carsten and Wellmer, Georg and Behr, Marek and Ballmann, Josef}, title = {Development of a modular method for computational aero-structural analysis of aircraft}, series = {Summary of flow modulation and fluid-structure interaction findings. Results of the Collaborative Research Center SFB 401 at the RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany, 1997-2008 / ed.: Wolfgang Schr{\"o}der. Notes on numerical fluid mechanics and multidisciplinary design. Vol. 109}, booktitle = {Summary of flow modulation and fluid-structure interaction findings. Results of the Collaborative Research Center SFB 401 at the RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany, 1997-2008 / ed.: Wolfgang Schr{\"o}der. Notes on numerical fluid mechanics and multidisciplinary design. Vol. 109}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Berlin}, isbn = {978-3-642-04087-0}, pages = {205 -- 238}, year = {2010}, language = {en} } @article{BergmannGoettenBraunetal.2022, author = {Bergmann, Ole and G{\"o}tten, Falk and Braun, Carsten and Janser, Frank}, title = {Comparison and evaluation of blade element methods against RANS simulations and test data}, series = {CEAS Aeronautical Journal}, volume = {13}, journal = {CEAS Aeronautical Journal}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Wien}, issn = {1869-5590 (Online)}, doi = {10.1007/s13272-022-00579-1}, pages = {535 -- 557}, year = {2022}, abstract = {This paper compares several blade element theory (BET) method-based propeller simulation tools, including an evaluation against static propeller ground tests and high-fidelity Reynolds-Average Navier Stokes (RANS) simulations. Two proprietary propeller geometries for paraglider applications are analysed in static and flight conditions. The RANS simulations are validated with the static test data and used as a reference for comparing the BET in flight conditions. The comparison includes the analysis of varying 2D aerodynamic airfoil parameters and different induced velocity calculation methods. The evaluation of the BET propeller simulation tools shows the strength of the BET tools compared to RANS simulations. The RANS simulations underpredict static experimental data within 10\% relative error, while appropriate BET tools overpredict the RANS results by 15-20\% relative error. A variation in 2D aerodynamic data depicts the need for highly accurate 2D data for accurate BET results. The nonlinear BET coupled with XFOIL for the 2D aerodynamic data matches best with RANS in static operation and flight conditions. The novel BET tool PropCODE combines both approaches and offers further correction models for highly accurate static and flight condition results.}, language = {en} } @incollection{BrittenBraunHesseetal.2003, author = {Britten, G. and Braun, Carsten and Hesse, M. and Ballmann, Josef}, title = {Computational aeroelasticity with reduced structural models}, series = {Flow modulation and fluid-structure interaction at airplane wings : research results of the Collaborative Research Center SFB 401 at RWTH Aachen, University of Technology, Aachen, Germany / Josef Ballmann (Ed.) Notes on numerical fluid mechanics and multidisciplinary design. Vol. 84}, booktitle = {Flow modulation and fluid-structure interaction at airplane wings : research results of the Collaborative Research Center SFB 401 at RWTH Aachen, University of Technology, Aachen, Germany / Josef Ballmann (Ed.) Notes on numerical fluid mechanics and multidisciplinary design. Vol. 84}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Berlin}, isbn = {3-540-40209-8}, pages = {275 -- 299}, year = {2003}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{ThomaFisherBraun2020, author = {Thoma, Andreas and Fisher, Alex and Braun, Carsten}, title = {Improving the px4 avoid algorithm by bio-inspired flight strategies}, series = {DLRK2020 - „Luft- und Raumfahrt - Verantwortung in allen Dimensionen"}, booktitle = {DLRK2020 - „Luft- und Raumfahrt - Verantwortung in allen Dimensionen"}, doi = {10.25967/530183}, pages = {10 Seiten}, year = {2020}, language = {en} } @article{ThomessenThomaBraun2023, author = {Thomessen, Karolin and Thoma, Andreas and Braun, Carsten}, title = {Bio-inspired altitude changing extension to the 3DVFH* local obstacle avoidance algorithm}, series = {CEAS Aeronautical Journal}, journal = {CEAS Aeronautical Journal}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Wien}, issn = {1869-5590 (Online)}, doi = {10.1007/s13272-023-00691-w}, pages = {11 Seiten}, year = {2023}, abstract = {Obstacle avoidance is critical for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) operating autonomously. Obstacle avoidance algorithms either rely on global environment data or local sensor data. Local path planners react to unforeseen objects and plan purely on local sensor information. Similarly, animals need to find feasible paths based on local information about their surroundings. Therefore, their behavior is a valuable source of inspiration for path planning. Bumblebees tend to fly vertically over far-away obstacles and horizontally around close ones, implying two zones for different flight strategies depending on the distance to obstacles. This work enhances the local path planner 3DVFH* with this bio-inspired strategy. The algorithm alters the goal-driven function of the 3DVFH* to climb-preferring if obstacles are far away. Prior experiments with bumblebees led to two definitions of flight zone limits depending on the distance to obstacles, leading to two algorithm variants. Both variants reduce the probability of not reaching the goal of a 3DVFH* implementation in Matlab/Simulink. The best variant, 3DVFH*b-b, reduces this probability from 70.7 to 18.6\% in city-like worlds using a strong vertical evasion strategy. Energy consumption is higher, and flight paths are longer compared to the algorithm version with pronounced horizontal evasion tendency. A parameter study analyzes the effect of different weighting factors in the cost function. The best parameter combination shows a failure probability of 6.9\% in city-like worlds and reduces energy consumption by 28\%. Our findings demonstrate the potential of bio-inspired approaches for improving the performance of local path planning algorithms for UAV.}, language = {en} } @article{MoehrenBergmannJanseretal.2023, author = {M{\"o}hren, Felix and Bergmann, Ole and Janser, Frank and Braun, Carsten}, title = {On the influence of elasticity on propeller performance: a parametric study}, series = {CEAS Aeronautical Journal}, volume = {14}, journal = {CEAS Aeronautical Journal}, publisher = {Springer Nature}, address = {Berlin}, issn = {1869-5590 (Online)}, doi = {10.1007/s13272-023-00649-y}, pages = {311 -- 323}, year = {2023}, abstract = {The aerodynamic performance of propellers strongly depends on their geometry and, consequently, on aeroelastic deformations. Knowledge of the extent of the impact is crucial for overall aircraft performance. An integrated simulation environment for steady aeroelastic propeller simulations is presented. The simulation environment is applied to determine the impact of elastic deformations on the aerodynamic propeller performance. The aerodynamic module includes a blade element momentum approach to calculate aerodynamic loads. The structural module is based on finite beam elements, according to Timoshenko theory, including moderate deflections. Several fixed-pitch propellers with thin-walled cross sections made of both isotropic and non-isotropic materials are investigated. The essential parameters are varied: diameter, disc loading, sweep, material, rotational, and flight velocity. The relative change of thrust between rigid and elastic blades quantifies the impact of propeller elasticity. Swept propellers of large diameters or low disc loadings can decrease the thrust significantly. High flight velocities and low material stiffness amplify this tendency. Performance calculations without consideration of propeller elasticity can lead to decreased efficiency. To avoid cost- and time-intense redesigns, propeller elasticity should be considered for swept planforms and low disc loadings.}, language = {en} } @article{GoettenHavermannBraunetal.2020, author = {G{\"o}tten, Falk and Havermann, Marc and Braun, Carsten and Marino, Matthew and Bil, Cees}, title = {Wind-tunnel and CFD investigations of UAV landing gears and turrets - Improvements in empirical drag estimation}, series = {Aerospace Science and Technology}, volume = {107}, journal = {Aerospace Science and Technology}, number = {Art. 106306}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {1270-9638}, doi = {10.1016/j.ast.2020.106306}, year = {2020}, abstract = {This paper analyzes the drag characteristics of several landing gear and turret configurations that are representative of unmanned aircraft tricycle landing gears and sensor turrets. A variety of these components were constructed via 3D-printing and analyzed in a wind-tunnel measurement campaign. Both turrets and landing gears were attached to a modular fuselage that supported both isolated components and multiple components at a time. Selected cases were numerically investigated with a Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes approach that showed good accuracy when compared to wind-tunnel data. The drag of main gear struts could be significantly reduced via streamlining their cross-sectional shape and keeping load carrying capabilities similar. The attachment of wheels introduced interference effects that increased strut drag moderately but significantly increased wheel drag compared to isolated cases. Very similar behavior was identified for front landing gears. The drag of an electro-optical and infrared sensor turret was found to be much higher than compared to available data of a clean hemisphere-cylinder combination. This turret drag was merely influenced by geometrical features like sensor surfaces and the rotational mechanism. The new data of this study is used to develop simple drag estimation recommendations for main and front landing gear struts and wheels as well as sensor turrets. These recommendations take geometrical considerations and interference effects into account.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{KapoorBraunBoller2010, author = {Kapoor, Hrshi and Braun, Carsten and Boller, Christian}, title = {Modelling and optimisation of maintenance intervals to realize structural health monitoring applications on aircraft}, series = {Structural health monitoring 2010 : proceedings of the Fifth European Workshop on Structural Health Monitoring held at Sorrento, Naples, Italy, June 28 - July 4, 2010 ; [EWSHM]}, booktitle = {Structural health monitoring 2010 : proceedings of the Fifth European Workshop on Structural Health Monitoring held at Sorrento, Naples, Italy, June 28 - July 4, 2010 ; [EWSHM]}, editor = {Casciati, Fabio}, publisher = {DEStech Publ.}, address = {Lancaster, Pa.}, isbn = {978-1-60595-024-2}, pages = {55 -- 63}, year = {2010}, language = {en} } @article{ThomaGardiFisheretal.2024, author = {Thoma, Andreas and Gardi, Alessandro and Fisher, Alex and Braun, Carsten}, title = {Improving local path planning for UAV flight in challenging environments by refining cost function weights}, series = {CEAS Aeronautical Journal}, journal = {CEAS Aeronautical Journal}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Wien}, issn = {1869-5590 (eISSN)}, doi = {10.1007/s13272-024-00741-x}, pages = {12 Seiten}, year = {2024}, abstract = {Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) constantly gain in versatility. However, more reliable path planning algorithms are required until full autonomous UAV operation is possible. This work investigates the algorithm 3DVFH* and analyses its dependency on its cost function weights in 2400 environments. The analysis shows that the 3DVFH* can find a suitable path in every environment. However, a particular type of environment requires a specific choice of cost function weights. For minimal failure, probability interdependencies between the weights of the cost function have to be considered. This dependency reduces the number of control parameters and simplifies the usage of the 3DVFH*. Weights for costs associated with vertical evasion (pitch cost) and vicinity to obstacles (obstacle cost) have the highest influence on the failure probability of the local path planner. Environments with mainly very tall buildings (like large American city centres) require a preference for horizontal avoidance manoeuvres (achieved with high pitch cost weights). In contrast, environments with medium-to-low buildings (like European city centres) benefit from vertical avoidance manoeuvres (achieved with low pitch cost weights). The cost of the vicinity to obstacles also plays an essential role and must be chosen adequately for the environment. Choosing these two weights ideal is sufficient to reduce the failure probability below 10\%.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{MoehrenBergmannJanseretal.2023, author = {M{\"o}hren, Felix and Bergmann, Ole and Janser, Frank and Braun, Carsten}, title = {On the determination of harmonic propeller loads}, series = {AIAA SCITECH 2023 Forum}, booktitle = {AIAA SCITECH 2023 Forum}, publisher = {AIAA}, doi = {10.2514/6.2023-2404}, pages = {12 Seiten}, year = {2023}, abstract = {Dynamic loads significantly impact the structural design of propeller blades due to fatigue and static strength. Since propellers are elastic structures, deformations and aerodynamic loads are coupled. In the past, propeller manufacturers established procedures to determine unsteady aerodynamic loads and the structural response with analytical steady-state calculations. According to the approach, aeroelastic coupling primarily consists of torsional deformations. They neglect bending deformations, deformation velocities, and inertia terms. This paper validates the assumptions above for a General Aviation propeller and a lift propeller for urban air mobility or large cargo drones. Fully coupled reduced-order simulations determine the dynamic loads in the time domain. A quasi-steady blade element momentum approach transfers loads to one-dimensional finite beam elements. The simulation results are in relatively good agreement with the analytical method for the General Aviation propeller but show increasing errors for the slender lift propeller. The analytical approach is modified to consider the induced velocities. Still, inertia and velocity proportional terms play a significant role for the lift propeller due to increased elasticity. The assumption that only torsional deformations significantly impact the dynamic loads of propellers is not valid. Adequate determination of dynamic loads of such designs requires coupled aeroelastic simulations or advanced analytical procedures.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{GoettenHavermannBraunetal.2018, author = {G{\"o}tten, Falk and Havermann, Marc and Braun, Carsten and Gomez, Francisco and Bil, Cees}, title = {On the Applicability of Empirical Drag Estimation Methods for Unmanned Air Vehicle Design Read More: https://arc.aiaa.org/doi/10.2514/6.2018-3192}, series = {2018 Aviation Technology, Integration, and Operations Conference, AIAA AVIATION Forum}, booktitle = {2018 Aviation Technology, Integration, and Operations Conference, AIAA AVIATION Forum}, issn = {1533-385X}, doi = {10.2514/6.2018-3192}, pages = {Article 3192}, year = {2018}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{BraunBouckeBallmann2005, author = {Braun, Carsten and Boucke, Alexander and Ballmann, Josef}, title = {Numerical prediction of the wing deformation of a high speed transport aircraft type wind tunnel model by direct aeroelastic simulation}, series = {Conference proceedings : CEAS/AIAA/DGLR International Forum on Aeroelasticity and Structural Dynamics IFASD 2005 : M{\"u}nchen, June 28 - July 1, 2005. DGLR-Bericht. 2005,04}, booktitle = {Conference proceedings : CEAS/AIAA/DGLR International Forum on Aeroelasticity and Structural Dynamics IFASD 2005 : M{\"u}nchen, June 28 - July 1, 2005. DGLR-Bericht. 2005,04}, publisher = {DGLR}, address = {Bonn}, isbn = {3-932182-43-X}, pages = {1 CD-ROM}, year = {2005}, language = {en} } @article{GoettenHavermannBraunetal.2019, author = {G{\"o}tten, Falk and Havermann, Marc and Braun, Carsten and Gomez, Francisco and Bil, Cees}, title = {RANS Simulation Validation of a Small Sensor Turret for UAVs}, series = {Journal of Aerospace Engineering}, volume = {32}, journal = {Journal of Aerospace Engineering}, number = {5}, publisher = {ASCE}, address = {New York}, issn = {1943-5525}, doi = {10.1061/(ASCE)AS.1943-5525.0001055}, pages = {Article number 04019060}, year = {2019}, abstract = {Recent Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) design procedures rely on full aircraft steady-state Reynolds-Averaged-Navier-Stokes (RANS) analyses in early design stages. Small sensor turrets are included in such simulations, even though their aerodynamic properties show highly unsteady behavior. Very little is known about the effects of this approach on the simulation outcomes of small turrets. Therefore, the flow around a model turret at a Reynolds number of 47,400 is simulated with a steady-state RANS approach and compared to experimental data. Lift, drag, and surface pressure show good agreement with the experiment. The RANS model predicts the separation location too far downstream and shows a larger recirculation region aft of the body. Both characteristic arch and horseshoe vortex structures are visualized and qualitatively match the ones found by the experiment. The Reynolds number dependence of the drag coefficient follows the trend of a sphere within a distinct range. The outcomes indicate that a steady-state RANS model of a small sensor turret is able to give results that are useful for UAV engineering purposes but might not be suited for detailed insight into flow properties.}, language = {en} }