Numerical investigation of maneuvering drone aeroacoustics

In recent years, UAVs have gained interest across applications from ecommerce to search and rescue missions. However, their noise generation is still one of their main limits. While existing research mainly focuses on aeroacoustic noise during forward flight or hovering, the annoyance importance of transition maneuvers for humans is recognized. This thesis presents a numerical methodology using Simcenter StarCCM+ to study aeroacoustic in maneuvering drones, specifically the transition from hovering to forward flight. The methodology starts with isolated propeller fluid dynamics, extending to the full drone after validation. An analytical model is used to validate propeller thrust variation due to a lack of material in literature. The overset mesh method is crucial due to the problem’s nature. This research dedicates a relevant portion to the mesh approach’s peculiarities. The study continues with the acoustic analysis. Acoustic pressure evaluation employs a time domain solution of FWH equations with an impermeable surface approach. This investigation focused on the isolated propeller due to time constraints. Defining the maneuver has been challenging thus, a detailed analysis is required for real case maneuver implementation. Comparing thrust history graphs for the isolated propeller and full case reveals distinct behavior. Additionally, SPL variation during the isolated propeller’s maneuver is observed.