The relentless pursuit of aircraft flight efficiency has thrust
variable-pitch propeller technology into the forefront of aviation innovation.
This technology, rooted in the ancient power unit of propellers, has found
renewed significance, particularly in the realms of unmanned aerial vehicles
and urban air mobility. This underscores the profound interplay between
visionary aviation concepts and the enduring utility of propellers.
Variable-pitch propellers are poised to be pivotal in shaping the future of
human aviation, offering benefits such as extended endurance, enhanced
maneuverability, improved fuel economy, and prolonged engine life. However,
with additional capabilities come new technical challenges. The development of
an online adaptive control of variable-pitch propellers that does not depend on
an accurate dynamic model stands as a critical imperative. Therefore, a
comprehensive review and forward-looking analysis of this technology is
warranted. This paper introduces the development background of variable-pitch
aviation propeller technology, encompassing diverse pitch angle adjustment
schemes and their integration with various engine types. It places a central
focus on the latest research frontiers and emerging directions in pitch control
strategies. Lastly, it delves into the research domain of constant speed pitch
control, articulating the three main challenges confronting this technology:
inadequacies in system modeling, the intricacies of propeller-engine
compatibility, and the impact of external, time-varying factors. By shedding
light on these multifaceted aspects of variable-pitch propeller technology,
this paper serves as a resource for aviation professionals and researchers
navigating the intricate landscape of future aircraft development