Design and implementation of a gliding cross-domain vehicle

Cross-domain vehicle (CDV) is able to navigate in different domains, having a wide range of applications in military and civil fields. However, most of the existing CDVs have limited size and payload, which restrict their development in complex oceanic conditions. In this paper, we analyze the cross-domain process and propose a novel CDV, which is characterized by two sets of hydrofoils and foldable airfoil to ensure better hydrodynamic and aerodynamic performance. Through theoretical modeling and numerical simulations, the functions of the feature structures along with their mechanisms are thoroughly investigated. The hydrofoils allow the CDV to glide and take off rapidly, and serve as a buffer zone for impact reduction during surface landing. Meanwhile, the foldable tandem airfoils make significant contributions to the flight stability and efficiency of the CDV. Furthermore, the prototype equipped with the control system is fabricated and experimented, verifying the feasibility and reliability of our design. The cross-domain method and structural design proposed in this paper will provide useful guidance to the future development of novel CDVs.