Abstract
This paper provides a thorough investigation of the modelling and aerodynamics of the Skywalker X8 Blended Wing Body (BWB) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), emphasising the use of a V-tail to increase stability. The goal of the research is to maximise the UAV’s aerodynamic performance while maintaining operational effectiveness and structural integrity. OpenVSP aero software is used to carefully carry out the design and analysis process. This software makes it easier to precisely calculate aerodynamic coefficients and stability derivatives. The X8 BWB is selected because of its distinct design and adaptability to a wide range of UAV uses. Its intrinsic stability features, however, provide serious difficulties. A V-tail arrangement is suggested and included into the current design to alleviate these issues. This modification aims to enhance the longitudinal and directional stability of the UAV without significantly affecting its aerodynamic performance.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | AIAA Science and Technology Forum and Exposition, AIAA SciTech Forum 2025 |
| Publisher | American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Inc, AIAA |
| ISBN (Print) | 9781624107238 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - 2025 |
| Event | AIAA Science and Technology Forum and Exposition, AIAA SciTech Forum 2025 - Orlando, United States Duration: 6 Jan 2025 → 10 Jan 2025 |
Publication series
| Name | AIAA Science and Technology Forum and Exposition, AIAA SciTech Forum 2025 |
|---|
Conference
| Conference | AIAA Science and Technology Forum and Exposition, AIAA SciTech Forum 2025 |
|---|---|
| Country/Territory | United States |
| City | Orlando |
| Period | 6/01/25 → 10/01/25 |
Bibliographical note
Publisher Copyright:© 2025, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Inc, AIAA. All rights reserved.
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Aerospace Engineering