Design and Implementation of a VTOL UAV and its Digital Twin

Yebin Zhong, Xizheng Huang, Zexin Lin, Jiayu Chen, Zhenglong Sun, Xiaoqiang Ji

Abstract: In this paper, we adopted a VTOL UAV model design and developed a digital twin for the corresponding model. The digital twin consists of the following parts: Unity simulation system, physical VTOL UAV, and communication interface. As we know, the main function of the digital twin is verification. However, there is a gap between the virtual simulation and physical test results. Therefore, based on the Unity engine and the VTOL UAV, this paper will demonstrate a simulation case of performing short takeoff and vertical landing operations using the VTOL UAV. These simulation results show that the system can simulate the aerodynamics, physics, and controls of the UAV with high fidelity and reliability. The digital twin system can also provide a platform for VTOL UAV application development, theoretical investigation, and intelligent training.