ATLAS IV wing aerodynamic design: From conceptual approach to detailed optimization

In this paper, the aerodynamic design of the ATLAS IV, remote controlled aircraft, is summarized. A wing aerodynamic design methodology was established for a high lift-high efficient aircraft, which participated at the International Competition: Air Cargo Challenge 2013 (ACC 2013), Lisbon, Portugal. The conceptual approach includes the basic design considerations regarding the regulations, the power consumption for efficient take-off and the maneuverability during operational conditions. At the next step, the preliminary design is elaborated using an advanced numerical method based on Linear Strip Theory (LST). This numerical method evaluates the results from the conceptual approach, increases the numerical accuracy of the initial concept and the results are used for the Aircraft's Dynamic Stability analysis. At the final step, a full CFD model was developed and calibrated based on preliminary design results. During the detail design, the propeller effects, a gurney flap and a winglet design were also investigated, for the further increase of ATLAS IV prototype's aerodynamic efficiency. The wing aerodynamic design procedure was used for the Team's strategy plan for the ACC 2013, improving its rank during the Contest.