Available at: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/theses/3389
Date of Award
6-2026
Degree Name
MS in Mechanical Engineering
Department/Program
Mechanical Engineering
College
College of Engineering
Advisor
Elthahry Elghandour
Advisor Department
Mechanical Engineering
Advisor College
College of Engineering
Abstract
This thesis develops a repeatable design, CAD, aerodynamic postprocessing, structural screening, and manufacturing feasibility workflow for a 22-inch global minimum torque inspired multirotor propeller. Matched MIL and GMT geometries were compared at a 35 N, 4000 rpm static-hover operating condition using BEMT/XFOIL aerodynamic postprocessing, with diameter, blade count, chord distribution, airfoil schedule, and target thrust held constant. The final modeled comparison predicted a modest 1.5% reduction in torque and shaft power for the GMT case while maintaining the same thrust target. CAD construction, MATLAB reduced-order beam model, Abaqus screening, and manufacturing planning were used to identify geometry level structural and fabrication concerns. The structural results identify the root and hub transition as the primary region requiring further design attention, but they do not establish composite material margins or flight readiness. Experimental GMT thrust, acoustic, fatigue, material, and flight validation remain future work.