Glider dynamics along a circular path inclined to horizontal

Adrien Bouskela, Sergey Shkarayev

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Under unsteady wind conditions, dynamic soaring provides an elegant solution to the problem of unpowered aircraft endurance. The present study analyzes a canonical circular flight path at a set inclination angle relative to the horizontal. Inspired by seabirds, this technique harnesses energy from atmospheric flows through closed cycle flight paths, including upwind ascending and downwind descending trajectories. Remote-controlled glider pilots have successfully used these cycles to reach record velocities within the shear layers found on the leeward side of a ridge. The present study analyzes such flights using a canonical circular trajectory at a fixed inclination angle relative to the horizontal. The dynamics of a glider subject to unsteady winds is solved for a curvilinear path based on a three degree of freedom model in the path variable frame. Subsequently, the energetics along the circular path are analyzed for a step change in wind magnitude at a given altitude. Numerical solutions using a discrete and linear wind shear model are found, producing results for a series of flight path, aerodynamic, and wind parameters. The results provide evidence of the energy gained from repeated crossings of a shear layer characteristic of closed loop dynamic soaring cycles. Optimal path parameters are inferred for different initial glider and wind velocities, constructing a series of solutions that collectively demonstrate the energy accumulation possibilities of leeward dynamic soaring. Flight experiment data indicated sustained energy over numerous cycles within the near-ground boundary layer shear. Solutions are extended to Earth’s high atmospheric jet streams and Martian canyons, demonstrating the feasibility of flight energy accumulation within these environments.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationAIAA Aviation Forum and ASCEND, 2024
PublisherAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Inc, AIAA
ISBN (Print)9781624107160
DOIs
StatePublished - 2024
EventAIAA Aviation Forum and ASCEND, 2024 - Las Vegas, United States
Duration: Jul 29 2024Aug 2 2024

Publication series

NameAIAA Aviation Forum and ASCEND, 2024

Conference

ConferenceAIAA Aviation Forum and ASCEND, 2024
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityLas Vegas
Period7/29/248/2/24

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Energy Engineering and Power Technology
  • Nuclear Energy and Engineering
  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Space and Planetary Science

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