VTOL Fan Test Data Analysis

We are seeking an experienced engineering statistician or experimental data analyst to analyse physical ground-rig measurements supporting the development of a novel VTOL UAV.

The system involves two interacting ducted fans. Data are available from June and October test campaigns, covering different configurations.

Our objective is to characterise how the two fan speeds individually and jointly affect measured performance, and identify operating combinations that deliver the required lift with lower electrical power.

Scope:
• Audit the supplied Excel/CSV data, including channel definitions, units, available calibration information, repeat measurements and configuration differences.
• Analyse relationships between actual Fan 1/Fan 2 RPM and available measurements, including lift, electrical power, axial force, outlet velocities and residual assembly torque.
• Use appropriate regression, ANOVA and response-surface methods to assess individual effects, interactions and nonlinear trends.
• Report the magnitude of effects, uncertainty and model validation, alongside statistical significance.
• Identify promising operating regions within the tested range, distinguishing measured findings from predictions requiring further validation.
• Recommend a focused follow-up test matrix, including repeat measurements and additional operating points.

The campaigns must initially be assessed separately. Any combined analysis must account for differences in configuration and measurement methods. Geometry effects should only be estimated where geometry was varied and recorded.

Deliverables:
• Audited dataset with documented corrections and exclusions.
• Reproducible, commented MATLAB scripts, with required toolboxes identified.
• Clear contour plots, response surfaces and performance comparisons.
• A concise report explaining findings, limitations and recommended next tests.
• A handover discussion with our engineering team so we can rerun and extend the analysis.

Essential experience:
MATLAB, ANOVA, multivariable regression, response-surface modelling, experimental design and analysis of physical engineering measurements. Aerospace, propulsion or fluid-mechanics experience is desirable.

Please include:
• A relevant example of previous experimental-data analysis.
• Your proposed approach and expected timescale.
• How you would handle irregular test coverage, limited repeats and differences between test configurations.

Please quote separately for an initial data audit and the subsequent modelling/reporting stage. Detailed technical information and datasets will be shared under NDA.