All projects
paper · 2013
VAST — the Telescoping Additive UAV
Abstract — from the publication
A low-cost, highly flexible and modular Variable AirSpeed Telescoping wing additive manufactured unmanned aerial vehicle (VAST AUAV) for atmospheric sensing is presented. A novel aerodynamic design was realized with a lightweight, efficient additive manufactured mechanical structure to meet performance requirements. The aerodynamic design features telescoping wings to permit both dash and loiter flight depending on the exposed wing area and airfoil.
The vehicle, specified — a telescoping-wing UAV that changes its span and area in flight, built around a carbon-fiber backbone.
Anatomy. Telescoping wings, fuselage, carbon-fiber backbone, T-tail — the airframe an additive-first design philosophy produced.
| Wingspan — extended | 80 in |
|---|---|
| Wing area — extended | 503 in² |
| Wingspan — retracted | 56 in |
| Wing area — retracted | 366 in² |
| Stall speed — extended | 7 mph |
| Max speed — retracted | 60 mph |
| Weight | 7 lb |
| Battery | 2 × 5400 mAh · 11.1 V LiPo |
| Motor | Brushless · 300 W |
| Endurance — best cruise | 1 hour |
Wings extended. The aircraft aloft at dusk — the span fully drawn out for low-speed endurance.
In the air. The telescoping wings drawn out to their full 80-inch span — the configuration that drops the stall speed to a walking pace.
At altitude. The airframe against a low sun — an additive-first design carrying a one-hour endurance on a 300-watt motor.