Autonomous landing algorithm using a sun position predicting model for extended use of solar powered UAVs

In the field of robotics, a major challenge is extending the flight range of micro aerial vehicles. One way to extend the range is by charging batteries with solar arrays on the ground, while resting on intermediate landing positions. The solution we propose in this study differentiates itself from other solutions as it does not focus on...

Virtual testing of thermoplastic composites: Towards a hybrid simulation-physical testing pyramid

This paper summarizes the implementation of a Virtual Testing methodology in an industrial environment to predict the mechanical behaviour of composite material through the different scales of the conventional physical testing pyramid. A robust Virtual Test Lab allows for the generation of virtual allowables, while advanced interface models...

Optimal cure cycles for manufacturing of thick composite parts using multi-objective genetic algorithms

The paper addresses the multi-objective optimization of the cure process of a Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding for components ranging from 40 to 100 mm thickness and aims to investigate the effect of thickness on the identification and quantification of a set of optimal cure profiles that minimize temperature overshoot and process time....

Modeling DelftaCopter from Flight Test Data

The DelftaCopter, a tilt-body tailsitter UAV, endures large gyroscopic moments due to the single helicopter rotor providing its thrust. In previous research by de Wagter et al.[1] the DelftaCopter’s attitude dynamics were modeled using a rigid rotor, as is customary for small helicopter modeling. A controller based on this model was unable to...

Wing Sweeping Mechanism for Active Control and Stabilisation of a Flapping Wing MAV

During flight, natural fliers flap, twist and bend their wings to enhance flight performance. Lift and thrust benefit from flexibility as well as from both passive and active wing deformation. At the same time, the active deformations are used for flight control. In this study, we investigate strategies of control moments generation in a bio...

DelftaCopter Propulsion Optimization from Hover to Fast Forward Flight usingWindtunnel Measurements

Enlarging the flight envelope of aircraft has been a goal since the beginning of aviation. But requirements to fly very fast and to hover are conflicting. During the design of the DelftaCopter, a tail-sitter hybrid UAV with a single large rotor for lift in hover and propulsion in forward flight, the design of the rotor needs to properly balance...

Carbon fiber-reinforced polymer pultrusions adhesively bonded inside aluminum joints: experimental and numerical study

In the context of lightweight structure design for the transportation and robotics industries, new types of composite structures are being developed, in the form of trusses made of fiber-reinforced polymer composite members of small diameter. The main objective of this work is to study adhesive joints, bonding pultruded composite tubes inside...