3D-Printed Remote Controlled Aircraft

Author(s) Information

Sebastian Bessoudo, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow
Jose Ramirez, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow
Manny Ruiz, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow
Andrew Edwards, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow

College - Author 1

College of Engineering

Department - Author 1

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree Name - Author 1

BS in Mechanical Engineering

College - Author 2

College of Engineering

Department - Author 2

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree - Author 2

BS in Mechanical Engineering

College - Author 3

College of Engineering

Department - Author 3

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree - Author 3

BS in Mechanical Engineering

College - Author 4

College of Engineering

Department - Author 4

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree - Author 4

BS in Mechanical Engineering

Date

6-2024

Primary Advisor

Eltahry Elghandour, College of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Department

Abstract/Summary

The Senior Project for the 3D Printed Aircraft presents a compelling challenge to the team: design and fabricate an aircraft for the Cal State LA 3D-Printed Fixed-Wing Aircraft Competition, comprising three distinct events: Flight, Design, and Simulation. The objective of the flight competition is to achieve the longest flight duration, while the design event emphasizes innovation and originality. In the Simulation contest, our aircraft's CAD model undergoes Computational Fluid Dynamics analysis to assess its aerodynamic performance. These competitions are slated for May 2024.

While building the aircraft has its limitations due to the source of our construction being only 3D printing, we aim to optimize our designs and materials to overcome these constraints. Current focuses include reducing weight, enhancing motor strength, optimizing size, and refining the manufacturing processes of aircraft components. A successful first test flight was conducted on a prototype, and subsequently major redesign occurred to take advantage of the new material PLA-aero. Multiple tests have been completed to enhance our aircraft’s aerodynamic capabilities further and check the safety of our design.

The project encompasses theoretical analysis, design, manufacturing, and practical testing, with the design phase subdivided into three key components: the airfoil, fuselage, and tail. Each element is designed to optimize flight duration by focusing on high-lift and low-stall-speed characteristics. The primary technical hurdles include engineering an aerodynamically stable structure and fine-tuning control systems. Central to this project is the emphasis on rapid prototyping and testing.

URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/mesp/757