Our Path to a Successful Flight
Explore our gallery of images to see what we do to perform a successful flight at the competition.
DESIGN
Studying the Competition Rules
We study the competition rules to understand the requirements and constraints of the competition.
DESIGN
Brainstorming
Discussions in front of a whiteboard is where we come up with great ideas.
DESIGN
Component Testing
To decide which components to use, we test each of them. Data collected is used to determine the parameter of the plane.
DESIGN
Creating the CAD Model
Once we have the shape and size of our plane determined, we make a CAD model.
DESIGN
Completed CAD Model
After hard work from our team, the initial CAD model is created.
DESIGN
Finite Element Analysis
Finite element analysis (FAE) is conducted to assess the strength of our wing to make sure it can withstand the force of flight.
DESIGN
Computational Fluid Dynamics
Basic computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is performed to assess the aerodynamic performance of our design.
DESIGN
Engineering Drawing
Once the initial design stage is completed, we move on to manufacturing.
MANUFACTURING
Laser Cutting
We have access to laser cutters, which we use to manufacture the wooden and foam parts.
MANUFACTURING
Assembling the Wing
Laser cut ribs and spars are assembled with carbon fibre tubes and plastic wrap is applied to make our main wing.
MANUFACTURING
Shaping Foam Board Into a Wing
The foam section of the wing is shaped into our chosen aerofoil using laser cut jigs.
MANUFACTURING
3D Printing
The club 3D printer is used for rapid prototyping and manufacturing parts with complex geometry.
MANUFACTURING
Assembling the Plane
Once each component is finished, we assemble the final plane.
TESTING
Rapid Iteration
We employ SpaceX type rapid iteration which is made possible with the ease of manufacturability.
TESTING
Flight Test
Here we are after a successful flight test at a local park.
COMPETITION
At the Competition
Here we are practicing pre-flight procedures.
COMPETITION
FLY OFF
Here we are very happy having successfully completed a mission at the competition.