Shreyas Srivathsan
will propose a doctoral thesis entitled,
Propeller–Wing Aerodynamic Interactions:
Characterising Fundamental Flow Phenomena And System Performance Impact
For A Generic Propeller–Wing configuration
On
11:00 – 13:00 Wednesday, 30 October 2024
4222 Dissertation Defense Room - Price Gilbert Memorial Library
Abstract
Recent advances in technology have enabled a range of electric-powered aircraft for human
transportation in urban environments. Many of these designs rely on wingborne flight using a 
combination of propulsive, generally propellers and lifting, usually wings, components. From a 
safety and performance perspective, it is important to understand the physics and flow phenomena, 
especially the aerodynamic interactions between these propellers and the wings, and the 
accompanying performance impact. The present study aims to expand the current knowledge using 
model-scale wind tunnel testing with a generic propeller–wing setup to understand the aerodynamic 
phenomena and performance effects associated with, e.g., compound lift-and-cruise configurations or 
tiltrotors, by quantifying the loads on the propeller and the wing accompanied by flow field 
measurements for understand fundamental flow phenomena. Measurements were done for a range of 
operating conditions. The focus was to understand the effect of the propeller on the wing and vice 
vase as well as utilize system performance metrics to identify optimum conditions within interested 
flight regimes. Significant benefits to the wing performance was identified due to the propeller 
slipstream. Differences in the wing’s blockage and circulatory effects caused variations in the 
propeller performance. Optimal designs spaces were identified based on the operating conditions. 
These findings are critical as they can increase the safety and performance modern urban aircraft.
Committee
•  Dr. Juergen Rauleder (Advisor)
•  Dr. Marilyn J Smith
•  Dr. Steven A Tran
•  Dr. Brian J German
•  Dr. Nikolas S Zawodny