Prandtl Propeller: Design Process, Verification and Testing, Year 3

Completed TRL 4 (started at 2, targeting 4)

Description

The Prandtl theory shows that if we can alter the lift distribution by altering the twist distribution, a significant reduction in the strength of the tip vortex contribution to drag will occur

Benefits

Improved efficiency, possibly reduced torque/power and reduction in fan/propeller generated noise.

Details

Technology area	Flight Vehicle Systems > Aeroscience > Aerodynamics
Program	Center Innovation Fund: AFRC CIF (AFRC CIF)
Lead organization	Armstrong Flight Research Center, Edwards, CA
Start date	2021-10-01
End date	2022-09-30

Project contacts

Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.

Jason A Lechniak — jason.a.lechniak@nasa.gov
David E Berger — dave.e.berger@nasa.gov

How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.