Kinetic Energy of a Disabled Quadcopter Upon Impact at Terminal Velocity
Abstract
(U) The risk posed by a head strike from a disabled quadcopter was investigated in terms of kinetic energy and impact area. The experiments compared components of, and intact, DJI Phantom 4 Pro. The types of counter-unmanned aerial vehicle disabling mechanisms considered in the paper included propeller entanglement, motor shutdown, and structural breakup. The quadcopter disabled through a motor shutdown mechanism displayed windmilling as they fell. The windmilling effect decreased the velocity, and therefore kinetic energy, of the quadcopter at impact. Windmilling also oriented the quadcopter during descent such that the quadcopter fell in an upright position such that impact occurred on the deformable/frangible landing gear. The landing gear and other plastic components of the quadcopter showed multiple permanent breaks and bends that would absorb energy of an impact. Disablement via propeller entanglement led to higher impact velocity and more quadcopter rotation compared to motor shutdown. Structural breakup posed an increased risk because that type of disablement multiplies the number of dangerous objects that could cause fatal injury, where the resulting rigid/robust falling objects would efficiently transfer energy during an impact.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 08, 2021
- Accession Number
- AD1135884
Entities
People
- B. K. Pate
- G. T. Ewing
- J. P. Mondragon
- J. W. Sumners
- Jesse C. Little
- M. A. Ramirez
- P. M. Jr Charles
- R. G. Snyder
- R. J. Tonucci
- S. T. Selph
- T. C. Clutz
- T. D. Heston
- W. S. Thompson
- Z. A. Sechrist
Organizations
- Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division