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NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center, June 2024.
NASA Camera-Operating Quadcopter (Photo taken with permission)
During my time at NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center, I was tasked with the design and development of an advanced air mobility (AAM) drone.
The goal of the project was to create a drone capable of efficiently transporting small packages across diverse environments, from densely populated urban areas to sparsely populated rural neighborhoods. This challenge involved not only overcoming complex aerodynamic hurdles but also optimizing performance, energy efficiency, and flight stability to adapt to various conditions.
Toroidal Quadcopter Drone. Designed in Fusion360.
A key design choice I made creating my CAD model was the integration of toroidal propellers, an innovative approach to improving both the drone's efficiency and noise reduction. Unlike traditional propellers, toroidal propellers feature a continuous loop design that significantly enhances thrust while reducing drag and the noise typically associated with conventional drone flight. This was especially important for operations in urban environments where noise pollution is a concern.
Throughout the project, I gained invaluable experience in aerodynamics, mechanical design, and the intricacies of electric propulsion systems. I also refined my skills in incorporating real-world constraints into my designs, balancing innovation with practicality. Working in collaboration with NASA engineers and scientists, I honed my problem-solving abilities, approaching each challenge with both creativity and technical precision.
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