Optimise UAV Aerofoil for Powered Lift

We are seeking an experienced aerodynamicist or CFD engineer to optimise an existing aerofoil for a prototype UAV. The objective is to maximise upward lift, targeting at least 250 N at the specified design operating conditions. The aerofoil operates within a powered airflow, so relevant experience with blown aerofoils, powered lift or comparable applications would be beneficial. We will supply the existing CAD geometry, operating conditions and detailed design constraints. Scope of work - Analyse the existing configuration using 3D CFD to establish baseline performance. - Develop and evaluate geometry modifications to increase lift. - Compare the original and optimised designs under the same specified operating conditions. - Assess the resulting airflow direction and distribution downstream. - Report lift, horizontal force and pitching moment for the baseline and proposed design. Key constraints - Wingspan must remain unchanged. - The required downstream airflow deflection angle and coverage must be maintained effectively. - Optimisation must remain within the supplied airflow conditions and propulsion limits. - Further geometry and installation constraints will be provided before work begins. Deliverables - Optimised CAD geometry in an agreed editable format. - CFD setup and simulation files sufficient to reproduce the results. - A concise technical report comparing baseline and optimised performance, including flow visualisations, convergence evidence and a mesh-independence assessment. - A clear statement of the lift achieved and any remaining limitations against the 250 N target. Please include examples of relevant work, your proposed CFD software and optimisation approach, and estimated timescale. Explain how you would assess the feasibility of the lift target before proceeding with the full optimisation. Detailed geometry and project information will be shared subject to a confidentiality agreement. All project deliverables and resulting design IP must belong to our company.