URaD unmanned systems
Abstract
The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) team will compete in Topic 1: Small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV)s. The UTEP design focuses on the stated Warfighter need: UAVs that are more easily assembled, with fewer parts. The team added the following requirements -a system that was operationally relevant -a system that could be easily assembled and safely flown with minimal training -a system that simplified manufacturing procedures with field-replaceable parts -a system that had sufficient performance to fly in current combat theaters The UTEP rapidly deployable (URaD) UAV is a 3D printable design, with interchangeable field-replaceable parts. The URaD design is a quadcopter with five snap together parts, a removable battery, and a hand-held controller. A snap-on three-dimensional (3D) stabilized gimbal, a tablet ground control station (GCS) for automated flights, RTK/PPK GPS, and a range of advanced EO and IR sensors are optional accessories. The system fits in a small, portable case and can be ready to launch within minutes of opening the soft-sided case. Wire bundles in the UAS arms are eliminated through a unique manufacturing process. This project supports research-related education in the fields of aeronautics, additive manufacturing design, additive manufacturing production, systems design, systems integration, and generative design.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 18, 2019
- Source ID
- W911NF1910190
Entities
People
- Michael Mcgee
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- United States Army
- University of Texas at El Paso