Integration of Retractable Foils in Helicopters: Potentials and Advantages (UASystems)

The project aims to analyse and further develop an innovative concept for the integration of retractable foils into the eZELOS coaxial helicopter. This technology has the potential to increase aerodynamic efficiency, reduce energy consumption and optimise flight characteristics.

Key data

Description

Lack of aerodynamic efficiency during cruise flight is one factor why the range of helicopters is low compared to fixed-wing aircraft.

Retractable foils are an option to possibly increase the efficiency and thus the range of helicopters during cruise flight. This would also reduce the energy requirement for a given leg.

Tests in a wind tunnel under cruise flight conditions are intended to confirm the hoped-for positive properties of retractable foils.