SAWE Technical Papers

@inproceedings{3844,

title = {3844. Unintentional Lateral Imbalance Calculation Methodology for Freighter Aircrafts},

author = {Alejandro Fiestras Corcho},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/3844-unintentional-lateral-imbalance-calculation-methodology-for-freighter-aircrafts/},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-05-21},

booktitle = {85th SAWE International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering},

keywords = {Aircraft - Commercial},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3843,

title = {3843. Digital Exposure of Mass Properties Data},

author = {Nick Thies},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/3843-digital-exposure-of-mass-properties-data/},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-05-21},

booktitle = {85th SAWE International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering},

abstract = {Providing mass properties data for the consumption of others is, and may always be, a deliberate act. Whether that data takes the form of a periodic data deliverable, like a status report, or a specific

response to a customer question, Mass Properties Engineers must frequently mine and manipulate data to satisfy the needs of others. The data maintained within any mass properties database has a breadth that far exceeds simple numerical values of weight, center of gravity, and inertia. Most often, a database includes a labyrinth of codes and descriptors necessary to sort, parse, and aggregate those core numerical values in a meaningful way. Few people other than the Mass Properties Engineers tasked with maintaining that data have any real success gathering/assessing the data sufficiently well to satisfy specific data requests. As a result, both Mass Properties Engineers and customers persist in a request/provide, request/provide paradigm. Even when considering periodic data deliverables, this cycle is preserved (with an implied request). Establishing methods by which mass properties data can be openly exposed, in a meaningful way, serves to break down this cycle. Many data requests need not be asked again; the data is always available without request. In some cases, periodic data deliverables are challenged, relegated to historical practices, as they are replaced by real-time or near-real-time data. However, realizing such a paradigm-breaking scenario cannot occur without one thing – a deliberate act to do so. This paper presents fundamental changes which enable digital exposure of mass properties data.},

keywords = {General},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3841,

title = {3841. Recommended Practice (RP) Functional Sub-codes: Simplified Part Categories for Better Early Program Weight Estimation and Enabling AI Analysis},

author = {Roman Aman},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/3841-recommended-practice-functional-sub-codes-simplified-part-categories-for-better-early-program-weight-estimation-and-enabling-ai-analysis/},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-05-21},

urldate = {2026-05-21},

booktitle = {85th SAWE International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering},

abstract = {In today's world Mass Properties engineers are expected to do more with less. This paper walks through a breakthrough method of using simplified part categories (Recommended Practice Sub-codes) to quickly summarize data, check for errors, and generate new parametric relationships. The method, is simple, proven, and perhaps the most game changing addition to Recommended Practice (RP) in decades. As a result of using this method any Mass Properties engineer will be able to formulate important parametric weight estimation relationships for future programs and by using those relationships estimate missing components at a detailed part level.



Just as recommended practices use Page, Column, Row, codes to define the function of parts. Within that function there may be dozens of different kinds of parts that leave people unable to recreate details during preliminary design. Likewise, RP functional codes take time and experience to assign at a detailed level and must be re-coded each time the design changes. Sub-codes or part categories are simpler and stay the same no matter what RP function and can be almost entirely coded automatically saving time. They are intended to be used with RP functional codes.



The RP coding tells us what system or function a part has as part of the overall vehicle system for example Hydraulics. The sub-codes go one more level lower and define what that part is – tube, fitting, bracket, P-clamp, or fluid. With this data we can estimate parts at a lower level and better estimate missing parts during preliminary design.



Finally, due to the automated nature of sub-codes aka part categories, we can fuel future AI efforts by forming thousands of additional weight estimating relationships as compared to RP functional coding alone. The simplicity of these categories makes them far more likely to align one design to another. With simplicity and automation also comes the ability to error check weight estimates faster.},

keywords = {Aircraft},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3855,

title = {3855. Double-Shell and Sandwich Fuselages for Future Aircraft},

author = {Hans-Peter Dahm},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/3855-double-shell-and-sandwich-fuselages-for-future-aircraft/},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-05-21},

urldate = {2026-05-21},

booktitle = {85th SAWE International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering},

abstract = {There are several fuselage concepts which show alternatives in comparison to the classical cylindrical fuselage concept. Double-shell fuselages include classic double-bubble cabins, double-D variants, and multi-shell arrangements in which one or more near-cylindrical pressure lobes are enclosed by an outer aerodynamic shell. This paper restructures the topic and describes basic structural-mechanical behavior of double-shell sandwich fuselages. The objective is to determine when shell duplication in a sandwich creates a real mass benefit and when it redistributes mass among pressure skins, outer shells, webs, floors, and reinforcement details. A literature review is combined with a mechanics-based preliminary sizing method and a worked A220-like derived sample calculation. The paper then develops a separate aircraft-level estimate for a concentric circular double-shell sandwich concept manufactured as pre-equipped major shell modules. The approach combines a bottom-up structural mass build-up for the circular double-shell fuselage concept with a top-down aircraft-level fuselage-group allocation for the broader savings assessment. These two approaches serve different purposes and therefore produce different mass values. A future aircraft must integrate cryogenic hydrogen tanks, insulation, battery systems, cable runs, thermal management hardware, and larger secondary systems volumes than conventional kerosene aircraft. The architecture-only estimate yields a net installed mass saving of about 1.28 t. When a conservative transition from a public A220-like mixed-material fuselage baseline to a full thermoplastic-resin CFRP fuselage is added, with overlap correction to avoid double counting, the holistic aircraft-level rises to about 2.01 t. On a 39.0 t class level operating-empty-weight baseline this corresponds to about 5.16% of OEW, while remaining a concept-level result rather than a validated OEM design value. Public thermoplastic fuselage demonstrator results are treated conservatively as weight-positive but recurring-cost neutral relative to a metallic barrel, so the recurring production benefit remains dominated by modular preinstallation and reduced detail count at about €0.30 million per aircraft.},

keywords = {Aircraft - Commercial},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3840,

title = {3840. The Learjet 85: Historical Evolution, Critical Challenges and Lessons from a Misguided Program},

author = {Darrin McCloud},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/3840-the-learjet85-historical-evolution-critical-challenges-and-lessons-from-a-misguided-program/},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-05-21},

urldate = {2026-05-21},

booktitle = {85th SAWE International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering},

publisher = {Society of Allied Weight Engineers, Inc.},

abstract = {The story of the Learjet 85 (LJ85) starts with the Learjet 60 (LJ60). In 2004 the LJ60 was the largest Learjet in production, however it suffered from many problems that were causing it to lose valuable market share. Foremost was that the LJ60 used the same basic wing and main landing gear (MLG) design that traced its lineage all the way back to the Learjet 23 in the early 1960’s. Based off the original Swiss fighter jet wing design, this design was thin, very strong, high speed optimized and originally came equipped with tip tanks for additional fuel storage. It was now being used on a plane that weighed twice as much, had winglets instead of tip tanks and was limited to the same small size wheels. The following issues were the result:

1. Poor landing performance due to high landing speeds and undersized brakes

2. Large fuselage tank required due to small wing fuel volume

3. CG issues due to short MAC length and large fuel moment change



By the Summer of 2005, Learjet was ready for an internal launch of our new project. It was a design that would have instantly been recognized as a Learjet in both the performance and the external lines. Heritage aluminum structure and classic manual flight control systems would be used in line with all previous models. Newer LJ45 style systems and wing aerodynamics would be combined with a lengthened LJ60 fuselage to create a low-cost successor to the long in the tooth LJ60. It was called various official program names over the next year, but many of the employees liked to call it the Learjet 65.},

keywords = {Aircraft - Commercial},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3856,

title = {3856. Weight Management of Ground Vehicles: A Mass Properties Control Framework for Road, Off-Road, and Special-Purpose Platforms},

author = {Hans-Peter Dahm},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/3856-weight-management-of-ground-vehicles-a-mass-properties-control-framework-for-road-off-road-and-special-purpose-platforms/},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-05-21},

booktitle = {85th SAWE International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering},

publisher = {Society of Allied Weight Engineers, Inc.},

abstract = {Ground vehicles are frequently managed by curb mass, gross vehicle mass, or payload, but those scalar measures do not adequately control the engineering risk created by the distribution and maturity of mass. This paper presents a practical mass properties engineering framework for weight management of ground vehicles, including passenger cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles, electric bicycles, construction machines, special-purpose vehicles, and tracked platforms. The objective is to convert weight management from late-stage reporting into a closed-loop control process that supports architecture decisions, homologation, stability, braking, steering, energy use, payload, and lifecycle configuration control. The proposed approach combines top-down allocation of mass, center of gravity, axle loads, wheel loads, inertias, and reserves with bottom-up roll-ups from computer-aided design, bills of material, supplier data, and physical measurement. It distinguishes current mass from forecast mass, mass growth allowance from uncertainty, and certification limits from engineering margins. The method uses a defined mass state, a vehicle-family-specific risk register, a gate-based verification plan, and an escalation path whenever not-to-exceed values, axle reactions, center-of-gravity limits, or stability constraints are threatened. The central finding is that the best ground-vehicle program is not necessarily the lightest program; it is the program whose mass properties are controlled at the right level of maturity for each decision. For passenger cars and performance vehicles, the dominant risks are variant accretion, battery placement, unsprung mass, and inertia drift. For trucks and buses, payload, axle-load reserve, bodybuilder integration, roof-mounted systems, and rollover sensitivity dominate. For two-wheel vehicles, rider, battery, and luggage locations must be treated as part of the system. For construction and tracked vehicles, implement position, ballast, soil pressure, and transport configuration require explicit mass states. The paper concludes with an implementation checklist, for example status record, and peer-review checklist intended for adaptation to specific ground-vehicle programs. Keywords: mass properties engineering; weight management; ground vehicles; center of gravity; axle loads; moments of inertia; mass growth; uncertainty; vehicle development; verification.},

keywords = {Ground Vehicles},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3845,

title = {3845. The Earned Value Evolution of the Plan to Perform},

author = {Patrick Brown},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/3845-the-earned-value-evolution-of-the-plan-to-perform/},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-05-19},

booktitle = {85th SAWE International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering},

publisher = {Society of Allied Weight Engineers, Inc.},

abstract = {Earned Value Management (EVM) is a widely recognized project management technique for objectively measuring project performance by integrating scope, schedule, and cost. The Mass Properties Plan to Perform (PtP) is used in the total product lifecycle Program Development phase

for managing and communicating status empty, target, and not-to-exceed (NTE) weights. This paper explores the possibility of superimposing the EVM techniques onto the PtP process. And by leveraging the EVM vernacular, the author hopes to achieve the following results:



PtP with ‘earned weights’ (status and NTE as compared to target weights)

Improved Program, Chief Engineer, and Integrated Team communication (performance indices and variance analysis)

Wider understanding within non-technical disciplines e.g. Business Management team, Global Supply Chain, etc. (conceptual commonality with established EVM and relationships)



While the concepts presented in the paper are practical, and loosely follow both EVM and PtP

methods, the application and examples provided are hypothetical.},

keywords = {General},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3846,

title = {3846. Vendor Guarantee Weights in Product Development},

author = {Doug Fisher},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/3846-vendor-guarantee-weights-in-product-development/},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-05-19},

booktitle = {85th SAWE International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering},

publisher = {Society of Allied Weight Engineers, Inc.},

abstract = {Aircraft OEMs outsource significant design and build scope to vendors/suppliers. A Guarantee weight (often termed a Guaranteed-Not-to-Exceed weight) is the maximum allowable delivered weight of a supplier’s item. This paper outlines key considerations for establishing Guarantee weight agreements between design/manufacturing suppliers and aircraft OEMs in the civil aviation industry. Contractually binding Guarantee weights are critical to meeting aircraft performance and safety goals. Because suppliers face penalties for non-compliance, Guarantee weights must be realistically achievable within program cost and schedule constraints. Guarantees are often set early in development, before the design is stable. Early unknowns create weight risk that must be accounted for (via management reserve, weight-growth allowance, or other countermeasures) to reach an agreement acceptable to both parties.},

keywords = {General},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3851,

title = {3851. Roll and Horizontal Axis Moment of Inertia (MOI) Measurements using a Gravity Pendulum},

author = {James Blair},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/3851-roll-and-horizontal-axis-moment-of-inertia-moi-measurements-using-a-gravity-pendulum/},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-05-19},

booktitle = {85th SAWE International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering},

publisher = {Society of Allied Weight Engineers, Inc.},

abstract = {Customers with long cylindrical parts have had difficulty measuring the inertia about the roll axis on systems that require the part to be mounted vertical in order to conduct the measurement. This has led to issues with the requirement of a variety of fixtures and risky handling of parts in order to orient the part. Raptor Scientific has developed a measurement system that measures inertia about the roll axis in a horizontal manner using an air bearing fixture and universal rings to measure the time period, and when combined with center of gravity measurements from a KSR instrument and mass measurements, determines the inertia about this axis.

This paper examines the goals of the end user, the process used in designing the fixture, final results and accuracy requirements / what is achievable, and lessons learned along the way for the design and build of the final deliverable instrument.},

keywords = {General},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3854,

title = {3854. The Impact of Changing Test Weight Vertical Center of Gravity on a Shipboard Inclining Experiment},

author = {Alan Bryden and Rob Dvorak },

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/3854-the-impact-of-changing-test-weight-vertical-center-of-gravity-on-a-shipboard-inclining-experiment/},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-05-19},

booktitle = {85th SAWE International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering},

publisher = {Society of Allied Weight Engineers, Inc.},

abstract = {Changes to the vertical position of the test weights during the course of an inclining experiment affects the experiment results. In most cases, weight movements are perpendicular to the ship’s centerline plane and do not change in height. However, this may not be practical, or it may be more economical to raise or lower the elevation of the weights during the inclining experiment. It is up to the naval architect to determine the magnitude of this effect and whether it should be included in the calculations. This paper assists the naval architect in consideration of alternative means of performing an inclining experiment without sacrificing accuracy. This paper takes a geometric approach to the derivation of the GM equation and factors in the adjustment due to vertical weight movements. “Small angle” assumptions for the GM calculation remain and the effect of changes to those assumptions are not addressed in this paper. The primary drivers of error when moving the weights vertically are the magnitude of the angle of inclination and the ratio of the distances of the vertical movement with respect to the horizontal movement. This paper presents a correction factor tool for naval architects to determine the magnitude of the effect and how to include the effect in the results if necessary.},

keywords = {Marine},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3827,

title = {3827. Dynamic Mass-Aware Trajectory Tracking of Airships Using Multi-Actors Proximal Policy Optimization},

author = {Rongwei Liang and Duc Thien An Nguyen and Samuel Maimako},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/3827-dynamic-mass-aware-trajectory-tracking-of-airships/},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-05-22},

urldate = {2025-05-22},

booktitle = {84th SAWE International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering},

publisher = {Society of Allied Weight Engineers, Inc.},

abstract = {Dynamic mass variations significantly influence the attitude and trajectory tracking performance of stratospheric airships. To address this challenge, this paper proposes a dynamic

mass-aware control algorithm for airships using Multi-Actors Proximal Policy Optimization (PPO), a deep reinforcement learning framework. We first establish a comprehensive airship dynamics model that explicitly accounts for varying mass characteristics, formulating the state space, action space, and reward function to capture the impact of payload shifts or fuel consumption on flight stability. Multi-Actors PPO, leveraging a clipped probability ratio objective, enhances policy update stability and data efficiency in the presence of mass disturbances.  Neural networks are employed to approximate the policy and value functions, while Generalized Advantage Estimation (GAE) further boosts optimization performance. Preliminary analyses under diverse flight conditions and dynamic mass scenarios suggest that the proposed approach can significantly outperform traditional controllers such as PID and LQR in terms of trajectory tracking accuracy and robustness. Consequently, it offers an effective and stable solution for dynamic mass-aware intelligent control in unmanned airship systems.},

keywords = {Aircraft - Commercial},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3822,

title = {3822. Enabling Digital Transformation in Weights Management: A Unified Data Model for Industry-wide Integration},

author = {Mark Beyer},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/3822-enabling-digital-transformation/},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-05-22},

urldate = {2025-05-22},

booktitle = {84th SAWE International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering},

publisher = {Society of Allied Weight Engineers, Inc.},

abstract = {The increasing complexity of Weights Management across aerospace and related industries underscores the need for a unified and standardized approach to data modeling and nomenclature. This paper presents a comprehensive unified data model designed to address the unique challenges of weights management, establishing a robust foundation for digital transformation. By standardizing data definitions, harmonizing nomenclature, and implementing consistent validation processes, the model ensures seamless interoperability across systems and industries.

This forward-looking approach moves beyond conventional practices to embrace advanced tools and methodologies that enhance data integrity and streamline downstream processes. With applicability spanning aerospace, automotive, shipbuilding, and beyond, the proposed model serves as a blueprint for fostering collaboration and alignment among industry stakeholders.

The paper also highlights opportunities for the SAWE community to engage in partnerships that refine and expand this unified approach, creating a shared vision for the future of weights management. Ultimately, the unified data model serves as a cornerstone for driving industry-wide transformation, enabling innovative solutions that improve efficiency, reliability, and integration throughout the weights management lifecycle.},

keywords = {Cross Industry},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3816,

title = {3816. Empowering Mass Properties Engineers with Artificial Intelligence: Transforming Estimation, Analysis and Optimization},

author = {William Boze},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/3816-empowering-mpe-with-ai/},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-05-22},

urldate = {2025-05-22},

booktitle = {84th SAWE International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering},

publisher = {Society of Allied Weight Engineers, Inc.},

abstract = {The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into engineering disciplines is revolutionizing traditional workflows, enabling unprecedented efficiencies and innovations. For mass properties engineers, AI offers transformative capabilities in estimation, analysis, data integration, and design optimization, addressing challenges inherent in vehicle design and development. This paper explores the practical applications of AI in mass properties engineering, highlighting some key areas of opportunity. Additionally, the paper in the appendix provides a comprehensive, structured reference collection tailored for engineers seeking to harness AI’s potential, bridging the gap between theory and practice.

By equipping engineers with AI knowledge and tools, this work aims to redefine the boundaries of what is possible in mass properties engineering and inspire a new wave of innovation in mass properties prediction and control.},

keywords = {SAWE Inc.},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3835,

title = {3835. Vibration Characterization for Active Damping in a 2U CubeSat Payload for Rocketry Applications},

author = {Ellen Froelich},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/3835-vibration-characterization-for-active-damping-in-a-2u-cubesat-payload-for-rocketry-applications/},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-05-20},

urldate = {2025-05-20},

booktitle = {84th SAWE International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering},

publisher = {Society of Allied Weight Engineers, Inc.},

abstract = {Vibration damping is essential to protect certain flight equipment and avionics, ensuring a successful flight in rocketry. The two main types of damping are passive

and active damping. Passive damping uses materials to absorb shock and vibration during flight. This works under certain conditions but is not always sufficient. Active

damping, however, offers more effective results. This damping method uses a data processor to assess the system’s vibration state and sends this information to a

controller, which determines the appropriate action to reduce the vibration on the system, acting as a closed loop system.

To implement effective damping, the vibrations the system experiences during flight need to be characterized. This includes determining the modes of vibration the system

has, their locations, frequencies, and resulting displacements. The objective of the University of Minnesota: Twin Cities Rocket Team’s 2U CubeSat payload for the 2025

International Rocket Engineering Competition (IREC) is to characterize these vibrations that the CubeSat is experiencing during a flight to an altitude of 30,000

feet. Once the vibrations are characterized, an active damping system can be programmed and developed to reduce those vibrations.},

keywords = {Student Papers},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3833,

title = {3833. Path Planning for Autonomous Unmanned Ground Vehicles in Underground Mining},

author = {Narges Bagheri and Darion Vosbein and Hassan Khaniani and Mostafa Hassanalian},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/3833-path-planning-for-autonomous-unmanned-ground-vehicles-in-underground-mining/},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-05-20},

urldate = {2025-05-20},

booktitle = {84th SAWE International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering},

publisher = {Society of Allied Weight Engineers, Inc.},

abstract = {Autonomous robotic navigation in underground mining environments poses significant challenges due to confined spaces, poor lighting, and the absence of GPS signals. This study presents the design and implementation of an autonomous navigation system for the Husky unmanned ground vehicle (UGV), utilizing LIDAR-based Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) within the Robot Operating System (ROS) framework. The system enables real-time mapping, obstacle avoidance, and both global and local path planning in GPS-denied environments. The performance of navigation system was validated through simulations in Gazebo and field tests in two physical environments: the Bunker Lab at New Mexico Tech and the Missouri S&T Experimental Mine. These tests confirmed the Husky’s ability to navigate complex terrain and generate accurate 2D occupancy maps without prior environmental knowledge.},

keywords = {Student Papers},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3830,

title = {3830. A Mallard-Based Flapping Wing Aerial System},

author = {Darion Vosbein and Jared Upshaw and Samuel Maimako and Mostafa Hassanalian},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/3830-a-mallard-based-flapping-wing-aerial-system/},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-05-20},

urldate = {2025-05-20},

booktitle = {84th SAWE International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering},

publisher = {Society of Allied Weight Engineers, Inc.},

abstract = {Unmanned vehicles (UVs), commonly known as drones, have experienced rapid technological advancements in recent years, revolutionizing a wide range of industries from logistics to agriculture. In the context of ecological and environmental sciences, drones have emerged as a powerful tool for wildlife monitoring, enabling researchers to collect high-resolution data with minimal disruption to animal behavior and natural habitats. However, conventional drones—characterized by their rigid structures, propeller noise, and artificial appearance—can inadvertently introduce stress or behavioral changes in wildlife due to their intrusive presence.

In response to these limitations, the field has seen a growing interest in biomimicry, the engineering approach that draws inspiration from biological forms and behaviors. This method has proven particularly promising in the design of bioinspired drones that more closely resemble natural wildlife in both appearance and movement. By mimicking the locomotion and visual profile of animals, such devices can better blend into ecosystems and minimize their ecological footprint.

Among these innovations are drones that leverage taxidermy—using the preserved bodies of animals as the basis for mechanical systems. This approach creates a highly realistic façade that enhances stealth and enables the devices to be perceived as part of the natural environment. The use of taxidermized birds, especially species like the Mallard duck, has demonstrated potential for both aquatic and aerial surveillance applications. Flapping-wing drones and swimming robotic birds combine the advantages of camouflage with functional mobility, allowing for the discreet collection of data in wetlands and other sensitive ecosystems.

These biomimetic devices offer a non-invasive alternative to traditional tracking methods, such as tagging or trapping, which can be harmful or stressful to wildlife. Additionally, the integration of modern sensors, microcontrollers, and remote operation capabilities into these platforms allows for real-time data acquisition and expanded deployment range, opening new avenues for ecological monitoring and conservation efforts.

As biomimetic drone development continues to evolve, it holds great promise for reshaping how we observe and study wildlife—providing tools that are not only technologically sophisticated but also harmoniously integrated into the environments they monitor.},

keywords = {Student Papers},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3828,

title = {3828. Biomimetic Swimming Taxidermy Duck Robot},

author = {Darion Vosbein and Kathryn McDonagh and Sean Goodyear and Mostafa Hassanalian},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/3828-biomimetic-swimming-taxidermy-duck-robot/},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-05-20},

urldate = {2025-05-20},

booktitle = {84th SAWE International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering},

publisher = {Society of Allied Weight Engineers, Inc.},

abstract = {Unmanned vehicles (UVs), commonly known as drones, have experienced rapid technological advancements in recent years, revolutionizing a wide range of industries from logistics to agriculture. In the context of ecological and environmental sciences, drones have emerged as a powerful tool for wildlife monitoring, enabling researchers to collect high-resolution data with minimal disruption to animal behavior and natural habitats. However, conventional drones—characterized by their rigid structures, propeller noise, and artificial appearance—can inadvertently introduce stress or behavioral changes in wildlife due to their intrusive presence.

In response to these limitations, the field has seen a growing interest in biomimicry, the engineering approach that draws inspiration from biological forms and behaviors. This method has proven particularly promising in the design of bioinspired drones that more closely resemble natural wildlife in both appearance and movement. By mimicking the locomotion and visual profile of animals, such devices can better blend into ecosystems and minimize their ecological footprint.

Among these innovations are drones that leverage taxidermy—using the preserved bodies of animals as the basis for mechanical systems. This approach creates a highly realistic façade that enhances stealth and enables the devices to be perceived as part of the natural environment. The use of taxidermized birds, especially species like the Mallard duck, has demonstrated potential for both aquatic and aerial surveillance applications. Flapping-wing drones and swimming robotic birds combine the advantages of camouflage with functional mobility, allowing for the discreet collection of data in wetlands and other sensitive ecosystems.

These biomimetic devices offer a non-invasive alternative to traditional tracking methods, such as tagging or trapping, which can be harmful or stressful to wildlife. Additionally, the integration of modern sensors, microcontrollers, and remote operation capabilities into these platforms allows for real-time data acquisition and expanded deployment range, opening new avenues for ecological monitoring and conservation efforts.

As biomimetic drone development continues to evolve, it holds great promise for reshaping how we observe and study wildlife—providing tools that are not only technologically sophisticated but also harmoniously integrated into the environments they monitor.},

keywords = {Student Papers},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3826,

title = {3826. Assessment of the Feasibility of a Solar-Powered Airship for Mars},

author = {Yan Pozhanka and Mostafa Hassanalian},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/3826-solar-powered-airship-for-mars/},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-05-20},

urldate = {2025-05-20},

booktitle = {84th SAWE International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering},

publisher = {Society of Allied Weight Engineers, Inc.},

abstract = {In recent decades, humanity has been actively exploring outer space around Earth, and in recent years, nearby celestial bodies. Existing types of automated research platforms do not allow for the coverage of large areas while enabling direct measurements within bodies that possess an atmosphere. Therefore, this article presents a lower-bound estimate of the mass of an electric airship capable of flying in the Martian atmosphere and carrying a small payload. The assessment is based on a maximally lightweight airship design, considering anticipated advancements in materials and equipment. An algorithm in MATLAB has been developed for estimation of airship parameters. The algorithm iteratively estimates the mass of the components and compares it with the lifting force until equilibrium is reached. The results show that a Martian airship can be realized with feasible mass and dimensions. However, these parameters may pose significant challenges for transportation and deployment. Thus, the implementation of such a project requires the development of new technologies and the creation of specialized materials.},

keywords = {Aircraft},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3825,

title = {3825. A Study of a Moving Mass Coaxial Monocopter},

author = {An Nguyen and Samuel Maimako and Mostafa Hassanalian},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/3825-a-study-of-a-moving-mass-coaxial-monocopter/},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-05-20},

urldate = {2025-05-20},

booktitle = {84th SAWE International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering},

publisher = {Society of Allied Weight Engineers, Inc.},

abstract = {The evolution of aerial drone technology has led to a growing interest in innovative configurations that optimize efficiency and maneuverability. Among these, monocopters have emerged as a promising alternative to traditional quadcopters, offering higher thrust-to-loading area ratios and reduced mechanical complexity. This paper presents the design, simulation, and control strategies for a novel moving mass coaxial monocopter. By leveraging the concept of moving mass control, which dynamically adjusts the center of mass to achieve precise orientation and trajectory adjustments, this monocopter design eliminates the need for complex stabilization mechanisms. The study explores the structural design and aerodynamic advantages of the proposed configuration, emphasizing its potential for lightweight, energy-efficient, and long-endurance missions. A comprehensive simulation framework is developed to analyze the nonlinear dynamics of the system to address associated challenges. The findings highlight the moving mass coaxial monocopter's capability to maintain stability and maneuverability in diverse flight conditions, offering a versatile solution for applications requiring rapid responsiveness and extended operational duration.},

keywords = {Student Papers},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3823,

title = {3823. Agile RIO Weights Management Best Practices for Vehicle Development},

author = {Mark Beyer},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/3823-agile-rio-weights-management/},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-05-20},

urldate = {2025-05-20},

booktitle = {84th SAWE International Conference on Mass Properties Engineering},

publisher = {Society of Allied Weight Engineers, Inc.},

abstract = {Effective Risk, Issue, and Opportunity (RIO) management is vital to the success of product development teams, particularly in weights management, where decisions significantly influence vehicle and program performance. This paper presents a structured approach to standardizing RIO management processes, offering best practices and actionable templates to support integrated product development teams throughout the vehicle maturation lifecycle.

The proposed methodology focuses on not only identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks and issues but also capturing and exploiting opportunities. Central to this approach is the integration of forecasting tools and processes that provide enhanced visibility into program performance. By enabling Agile decision-making, these practices empower teams to anticipate challenges, adapt quickly to evolving conditions, and align with broader program objectives.

With standardized RIO templates and improved forecasting capabilities, weights management teams can enhance collaboration, streamline communication, and optimize resource allocation. This paper underscores the critical role of proactive RIO management in driving program success, ensuring that teams are equipped to navigate complex challenges and seize opportunities for innovation while maintaining program agility and performance excellence.},

keywords = {Cross Industry},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}