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Developing and 3D Printing sUAS Fixed-Wing Aircraft for Educational Use

PI Joseph Cerreta

The capability of commercial off-the-shelf 3D printers has increased rapidly over the past few years, and the ability to design, print and assemble sUAS could save academic institution resources and provide students excellent training.

Multirotor sUAS have limited endurance, range and payload carrying capabilities. Recently, the ability to print fixed-wing sUAS platforms from commercial-off-the-shelf 3D printers have lowered the barrier to entry for meeting the demands from industry with systems that are low cost and can carry electro-optical and thermal infrared sensors, multispectral and LIDAR sensors. Additionally, the advent of fixed-wing full motion video (FMV) capable drones has ushered in a new era of educational possibilities. The integration of 3D-printed fixed wing sUAS in the online classroom presents several opportunities.

Research Dates

09/01/2024 to 12/31/2026

Researchers

  • Scott S. Burgess
    Department
    Department of Flight
    Degrees
    Ph.D., Northcentral University
    M.A.S., Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
    B.S., Oregon State University
  • Joseph Cerreta
    Department
    Department of Flight
    Degrees
    Ph.D., Northcentral University
    M.A.S., Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
    B.A., Excelsior College
  • David Thirtyacre
    Department
    Department of Flight
    Degrees
    Ph.D., M.A.S., Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
    B.S., Washington State University

Categories: Faculty-Staff