FIXED-WING VARIABLE SWEEP UAV

Abstract

This thesis investigates the development, analysis, and practical deployment of a variable sweep fixed-wing UAV, with a focus on improving adaptability and performance across swept wing conditions. The main challenge is to stabilize the UAV using a custom-built flight controller in maintaining positive static stability (level flight) with swept and unswept wing configuration, using control theory. The report begins by reviewing existing UAV technologies and the demand for enhanced maneuverability and efficiency utilizing swept wings. The conceptual design phase is outlined, detailing the iterative approach employed to optimize the UAV's variable sweep wing configuration. Aerodynamic analysis is carried out to assess flight dynamics under various flight conditions. A sophisticated control system is developed to manage stable and straight flight during wing-sweep. Such a UAV has implications for both civilian and defense sectors such as corporate transportation/delivery, agriculture, surveillance and reconnaissance. This research underscores the transformative potential of variable sweep fixed-wing UAVs in the realm of unmanned aerial systems for optimizing flight parameters autonomously