Propeller-simulator

Python project for simulating propeller performance across RPM, pitch, and blade count, with both interactive GUI and command-line execution.

What The Simulator Includes

Physics Core (main.py)

• PropellerPhysics class with BEMT-style force estimation
• Lift/drag approximation via angle-of-attack model
• Tip-speed and tip-Mach computation
• Two model modes:
  • simple_bemt (implemented)
  • full_bemt (placeholder currently falling back to simple model)

Dynamic State

• SimulationState models RPM and pitch ramping toward targets
• Allows transient behavior instead of instant parameter jumps

Visualization

• Matplotlib 2D top view + force vectors
• Matplotlib 3D propeller view
• Rolling history panel for thrust/power/efficiency
• Animated run loop via FuncAnimation

GUI Controls (Tkinter)

• RPM slider/input
• Pitch slider/input
• Blade count selector
• Start/Pause animation
• Snapshot logging

Logging

• CSV log output in propeller_logs/
• Fields include thrust, power, efficiency, disk loading, power loading, tip speed/mach, Cl/Cd

Analysis Script (analyze_propeller.py)

• Loads one or more simulation CSV files
• Produces:
  • summary stats CSV
  • cleaned combined CSV
  • multiple figures (time series, histograms, correlation, scatter)
• Optionally generates DOCX paper if python-docx is installed
• Packs outputs into propeller_analysis_output/propeller_analysis_package.zip

Dependencies

From requirements.txt:

• numpy
• matplotlib
• pandas
• scipy

Optional for DOCX output in analysis script:

• python-docx

Run

GUI mode (default)

python main.py

CLI mode

python main.py --rpm 3000 --pitch 18 --blades 4 --model simple_bemt

Analysis Workflow

1. Run simulation and generate logs in propeller_logs/
2. Update the files list in analyze_propeller.py to point to desired CSV(s)
3. Run:

python analyze_propeller.py

4. Collect outputs from propeller_analysis_output/

Known Limitations

• full_bemt mode is scaffolded but not yet physically complete
• Airfoil polar database integration is placeholder-only
• Efficiency and induced flow treatment are approximate and intended for educational/research iteration