In 2013 Catto Propellers began to develop a method to record the dynamic air flow of a propeller in flight. With a custom mount made by Saber Manufacturing and a vacuum formed carbon fiber case to house the GoPro, we were able to maintain a live feed on the propeller aerodynamics. The GoPro Hero 3+ with 60 frames per second, 1080p, provided a real time visual throughout the flight profile that allowed Craig Catto to improve the propeller efficiency by actively notating where it is possible to reattach flow and modify the airfoils accordingly, ultimately improving the performance of the blade, in all aspects. It’s been this type of continuous improvement that has led to Catto’s achievement of numerous world records and recognition of advanced propeller design. Be sure to check back in at www.cattoprops.com for our updates regarding our research and development.
Catto Propellers Active Flow Analysis
Key Takeaways:
- Catto Propellers developed a method in 2013 to record dynamic propeller airflow in flight using a custom mount, carbon fiber case, and a GoPro.
- The real-time visual data from these flights allowed Craig Catto to identify areas for flow reattachment and modify airfoils, significantly improving propeller efficiency and performance.
- This commitment to continuous improvement has been key to Catto's achievement of world records and recognition for advanced propeller design.
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