Optimizing Cycloidal Propeller Hovering Efficiency with End Plates
Published:Dec 30, 2025 14:35
•1 min read
•ArXiv
Analysis
This paper addresses a key limitation of cycloidal propellers (lower hovering efficiency compared to screw propellers) by investigating the use of end plates. It provides valuable insights into the design parameters (end plate type, thickness, blade aspect ratio, chord-to-radius ratio, pitching amplitude) that optimize hovering efficiency. The study's use of both experimental force measurements and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations strengthens its conclusions. The findings are particularly relevant for the development of UAVs and eVTOL aircraft, where efficient hovering is crucial.
Key Takeaways
- •End plates significantly improve hovering efficiency of cycloidal propellers.
- •Stationary thick end plates are superior to rotating or thin end plates.
- •Optimal design parameters include a chord-to-radius ratio of 0.65 and a large pitching amplitude.
- •The optimized design achieves hovering efficiency comparable to helicopters.
Reference
“The best design features stationary thick end plates, a chord-to-radius ratio of 0.65, and a large pitching amplitude of 40 degrees. It achieves a hovering efficiency of 0.72 with a blade aspect ratio of 3, which is comparable to that of helicopters.”