Demonstration of transition between wing- and thrust-borne flight with the Flexrotor miniature long-range aircraft

We envision a class of miniature robotic aircraft dubbed Flexrotors which offer range, endurance, and economy at levels associated with wing-borne flight, together with capability for hover and VTOL. Routine operations of these aircraft will include dynamic transitions between wing- and thrust-borne flight, for launch and retrieval as well as for"hover-and-stare"interludes while underway. We propose to demonstrate transitions in Phase I using Aerovel"s first Flexrotor prototype. In Phase II we would apply our control techniques to a refined long-range Flexrotor, for demonstration of not only transitions, but also precise positioning relative to a small boat in rough conditions.