SAWE Technical Papers

@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{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{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{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{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{3787,

title = {3787. Small Satellites Launcher Mass Properties Estimation for Design Efficiency Improvement in Preliminary Conceptual Phase},

author = {Rubén González-González and Dr. Andrés García-Pérez and Dr. Gustavo Alonso-Rodrigo},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/paper-3787},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-05-20},

urldate = {2023-05-20},

booktitle = {82nd Annual Conference, Cocoa Beach, Florida},

pages = {23},

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

address = {Cocoa Beach, Florida},

abstract = {The aim of this paper is to introduce the current research at “Universidad Politécnica de Madrid” to increase the design efficiency of small space launchers in the preliminary conceptual phases based on a new approach in MBSE methodology that introduces efficient and fast simulations reducing their costs by finding an optimal balance with design weights. 

In the last decade, the nano and micro satellites market has emerged as the most promising in the space sector with a profit of $143.7M in 2017 and a growth forecast of 13.43% until 2023 [1]. Despite this significant market growth, the current supply of launching services offer for these small payloads is almost non-existent and satellites manufacturers must share rides as secondary customers on larger heavy launchers, what often causes schedule and targeted orbit conflicts. Because of this market demand, over the past few years many small companies have started plans to develop small launchers but only RocketLab was successful with its Electron launcher (a two-stage-to-orbit launcher with 225kg payload capacity to Low-Earth-Orbits at 185km) reaching orbital injection several times and presenting a public service. However, Electron ́s launch price is around $33k/kg, far away from initial SpaceX Falcon1 2008 offer (11k$/kg) [2]. This market analysis demonstrates the urgent need for finding a design solution that will let to present a competitive small launcher offer.},

keywords = {Missiles and Space - Launch Vehicles, Student Papers},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3793,

title = {3793. Effects of Mass and Pitch Moment of Inertia on Vehicle Suspension Design With Race Car Example},

author = {Pietro Stabile and Federico Ballo and Giorgio Previati},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/paper-3793},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-05-20},

urldate = {2023-05-20},

booktitle = {82nd Annual Conference, Cocoa Beach, Florida},

pages = {11},

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

address = {Cocoa Beach, Florida},

abstract = {The present paper addresses the topic of studying the influence of the main vehicle inertia parameters on the suspension design. A simple four degrees-of-freedom half-car model is used to describe the dynamic behaviour of vehicles running on randomly profiled roads. The response of the system is analysed by evaluating three performance indexes, namely driver discomfort, road holding and working space, referring to the standard deviations of driver seat vertical acceleration, force at ground and relative displacement between wheels, respectively. The effect of varying wheel mass, vehicle mass, centre of gravity longitudinal location and pitch moment of inertia on the three performance indexes is investigated. The proposed approach is applied to the design of the suspension system of a vehicle conceived for efficiency-based competitions. Based on these results, considerations on the best location for battery pack and ballast are drawn.},

keywords = {Ground Vehicles, Student Papers},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3767,

title = {3767. Determining Center of Gravity of Irregular-Shaped Bodies via Suspension},

author = {Emma Markovich},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/paper-3767},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-05-21},

urldate = {2022-05-21},

booktitle = {81st Annual Conference, Savannah, Georgia},

pages = {23},

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

address = {Savannah, Georgia},

abstract = {The precise determination of the center of gravity of an aircraft is essential for the balance, stability, and overall safety of flight. Military aircraft often carry additional attachments, such as wing-mounted surveillance equipment, fuel tanks, or weaponry, which alter the weight and balance characteristics of the aircraft. In the application explored in this paper, a novel suspension system for determining the center of gravity of surveillance pods varying in shape and size is developed. This allows for the calculation of the center of gravity of aircraft attachments utilizing a two-point connection - the same attachment method as used on an aircraft. The tool features a hinged testbed that is suspended from a rigid frame by three load sensing devices. Two measurement sets are taken at different inclinations using an inverted three-point weighing method which allows the center of gravity to be calculated in all three dimensions. To recover measurement accuracy lost due to the limitation of inclination angles to less than 20 degrees, a high precision inclinometer is utilized. Based on the specifications of the sensing equipment and extensive Monte Carlo simulation of errors in force measurement, inclination angle, geometric dimensions, and data sampling, it is expected that the center of gravity can be reliably calculated to within 0.1 inches of the true value. Using the tool, objects ranging from 180 lb to 2000 lb with sizes of up to 12 x 4 x 4 feet can be measured with this accuracy. The modular design of the apparatus, data acquisition methods, and analysis relating to computation of the center of gravity will be presented. Additionally, the paper will discuss error analysis for the measurements, as well as verification and validation methods.},

keywords = {03. Center Of Gravity, Student Papers},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3770,

title = {3770. Mass Management of a High Energy-Efficient Battery Electric Vehicle},

author = {Pietro Stabile and Federico Ballo and Giorgio Previati},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/paper-3770},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-05-21},

urldate = {2022-05-21},

booktitle = {81st Annual Conference, Savannah, Georgia},

pages = {15},

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

address = {Savannah, Georgia},

abstract = {The paper presents a detailed analysis of the mass-induced power demand of an ultra-efficient battery electric vehicle. The vehicle belongs to a special class of lightweight quadricycles, designed for participating to efficiency competitions. The influence of reducing the mass of the entire vehicle and the mass of the wheels on the vehicle energy consumption is assessed. A sensitivity analysis is performed by exploiting a “tank-to- wheel” multi-physics model of the vehicle. The model includes the main vehicle subsystems and the principal sources of power dissipation are modelled. A three-step sensitivity analysis is carried out: firstly, the influence of the mass reduction on the energy saving is analysed for two different race tracks; then, two different driving behaviour on the same track are compared; finally, the potential energy saving due to actual lightweighting interventions performed on the vehicle is computed. In this phase, secondary mass reduction effects (battery downsizing) are included in the simulation. Results are expressed in terms of Energy Reduction Value (ERV), a parameter widely used in the literature to quantify the correlation between mass reduction and energy saving. The vehicle studied in this paper shows an ERV due to vehicle mass reduction ranging from 0.23 to 0.36 kWh/(100 km∙100 kg), while wheel lightweighting leads to an ERV ranging from 1.03 to 1.74 kWh/(100 km∙100 kg).},

keywords = {31. Weight Engineering - Surface Transportation, Student Papers},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3779,

title = {3779. Determining the Center of Gravity of the Electric No Emissions Low Drag Airframe (NELDA)},

author = {Christl K. Haley},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/paper-3779},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-05-21},

urldate = {2022-05-21},

booktitle = {81st Annual Conference, Savannah, Georgia},

pages = {27},

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

address = {Savannah, Georgia},

abstract = {Although climate change has become an impending issue for all of humanity, it has brought nations together to design and create a variety of systems that leave little to no carbon footprint. The No Emission Low Drag Airframe (NELDA) is a unique electric aircraft design which aims to join this world-wide mission. The author (the airframe design lead) and her senior design team from the University of Colorado Boulder spent the fall semester of 2021 designing this commuter aircraft. NELDA can fly 6 passengers at a cruise altitude of 12,000 ft MSL, at a cruise speed of 150 knots for 1.5 hours with a 30-minute reserve, making this a perfect aircraft for short, direct flights. The characteristics for this aircraft aim to be certified under Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) 23 to ensure the safety of every passenger. Multiple trade studies were conducted to determine the design choices that make up this innovative aircraft. These studies resulted in an aft-mid-mounted wing, a canard, fixed tricycle landing gear, butterfly doors, and a pusher-propeller powertrain configuration. The specific energy, density, volume, and weight of the electric powertrain were estimated using a 5-year prediction for solid-state batteries. Since these batteries do not exist today, it was very challenging to accurately model and place the power system. The range and endurance of NELDA were used to determine the volume, number, and weight of the batteries. The safety of passengers, size of the batteries, and functionality of each battery were all considered while determining where and how to place the batteries among the other major components of NELDA. Additionally, it was critical to strategically place each of the components to achieve an acceptable static margin of 10%, as well as predictable dynamic and static flight characteristics. The designers of NELDA believe that their successful commuter electric airplane design will be part of the beginning of new, improved, clean aerial transportation.},

keywords = {03. Center Of Gravity, 10. Weight Engineering - Aircraft Design, Student Papers},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3763,

title = {3763. MauSPAF: Design of an Open-Source Mass Properties Management Framework},

author = {M. Nuño and K. Schröder},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/paper-3763},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-05-21},

urldate = {2022-05-21},

booktitle = {81st Annual Conference, Savannah, Georgia},

pages = {18},

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

address = {Savannah, Georgia},

abstract = {In this paper, an open-source mass properties calculation and management created using Python 3 is presented. The program implements uncertainty calculations using Monte Carlo simulations, mass properties calculations and basic tree structures. It also includes a library with aircraft mass estimation and calculation functions for simple geometrical shapes. To argument the design decisions, a thorough review of available literature about mass calculation tools is performed.},

keywords = {12. Weight Engineering - Computer Applications, Student Papers},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3768,

title = {3768. Mass Properties Reporting},

author = {Yiyuan Ma and Jin Yan and Ali Elham},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/paper-3768},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-11-01},

urldate = {2021-11-01},

booktitle = {2021 SAWE Tech Fair},

pages = {28},

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

address = {Virtual Conference},

abstract = {The Ultra-High Aspect Ratio Wing (UHARW) concept can improve the aircraft's aerodynamic efficiency and reduce fuel consumption. The Twin-Fuselage (TF) configuration is one of the most promising concepts for the UHARW design to reduce the wing bending moments and shear forces. This paper presents the development of a semi-empirical method for the weight estimation of TF aircraft in the initial sizing stage. A physics-based wing weight estimation method is improved for higher aerodynamic analysis fidelity and composite materials, which is used in the design of experiments and the results are applied for regression analysis to establish a semi-empirical method. Eventually, the established semi- empirical weight estimation method is integrated into a TF aircraft conceptual design and performance analysis framework, and a mid-range TF aircraft and a long-range TF aircraft are designed and sized to illustrate its application and efficiency in rapidly estimating the TF aircraft weight breakdown.},

keywords = {10. Weight Engineering - Aircraft Design, 11. Weight Engineering - Aircraft Estimation, Student Papers},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3772,

title = {3772. Scenario-based Prediction of Lightweight Costs - an Approach across Industries},

author = {Florian Wätzold},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/paper-3772},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-11-01},

urldate = {2021-11-01},

booktitle = {2021 SAWE Tech Fair},

pages = {38},

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

address = {Virtual Conference},

abstract = {To decide on which technology is best for a vehicle in development, technical and economical constraints need to be considered. The objective of this paper is to provide a generic, conceptual approach to estimating the value (€ or $) per weight unit (kg or lb), referred as lightweight cost, for all industries. It combines general project management and cost estimation techniques with mass property management. As cost and weight are unknown until the actual weighing or billing, this paper focuses on scenario-based assumptions. For an easy understanding, this lens is applied to a recently developed battery concept. 

The described approach integrates basic project management processes such as risk management, estimation considerations and cost assessment. In this pursuit, mass and cost are rolled-up based on the breakdown structure. Taking the uncertainties into account a most likely, best, and worst case are evaluated and a cone of respective lightweight cost is generated. For the ease of use in industrial daily business exactly one value per pound for decision making is derived, condensing the lightweight cost range by superimposing the mass and cost according to their specific scenario probability.},

keywords = {29. Weight Value-Of-Pound, Student Papers},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3774,

title = {3774. Weight Control For Floating Wind Installation},

author = {A. P. Crowle and P. R. Thies},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/paper-3774},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-11-01},

urldate = {2021-11-01},

booktitle = {2021 SAWE Tech Fair},

pages = {10},

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

address = {Virtual Conference},

abstract = {Floating offshore wind is a growing market within the renewable energy sector. The floating offshore wind turbines give access to deeper water sites, with minimal visual impact from land. The paper includes the weight control requirements for Spars, barges, semi submersibles and Tension Leg Platforms (TLPs) as floating wind platforms. 

There are weight control challenges for the various substructure types during the temporary phases of construction and offshore installation. An accurate assessment of the buoyancy of the floating wind turbine for different drafts and trims is required. Allowances need to be included in the weight calculation for temporary buoyancy, sea-fastenings and grillage. 

Weight control for installation has an influence on the weather window for the floating substructures during transportation to the offshore site and mooring and electrical connection. The paper will cover weight calculation methods during early design, detailed design, construction, installation, operation and demolition. 

The installation process for a floating wind turbine varies with substructure type and this paper will give an overview of the weight control requirements for loadout, ocean transport and mooring connection. The floating offshore wind turbine weight and centre of gravity has a direct bearing on draft, intact stability and motions. As part of the weight control process the centre of gravity and radii of gyration need to be accurately determined for each stage of the installation.},

keywords = {24. Weight Engineering - System Design, 35. Weight Engineering - Offshore, Marine, Student Papers},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3743,

title = {3743. FVA30: Application of Probabilistic Mass Estimation Methods to the Design of a Touring Motor Glider},

author = {M. Konersmann and M. Schmidt and S. Neveling and M. Scholjegerdes and F. Diekmann and T. Moxter and Miguel Nuño},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/paper-3743},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-07-01},

booktitle = {2020 SAWE Tech Fair},

pages = {16},

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

address = {Virtual Conference},

abstract = {In early design phases the mass and position of many aircraft components is uncertain. So, it is not possible to accurately calculate key aircraft parameters such as the total mass and center of gravity. A possible approach to deal with these uncertainties is using pessimistic and optimistic estimations for every component. This approach considers only the boundary values and can therefore lead to very conservative decisions. To reduce the uncertainty of the calculations and get a better estimation of the expected mass properties probabilistic mass estimation methods can be used.The FVA 30 is a hybrid electric motorglider being developed by students at the Flugwissenschaftliche Vereinigung Aachen (FVA). The configuration of the prototype features two electric engines in the V-tail unit and is therefore especially sensitive to mass changes. In this paper the usage of probabilistic mass estimation and propagation methods to design the FVA 30 is presented. Several methods to estimate probability distributions of different components are described. The propagation of uncertainties is calculated using Monte Carlo simulations with random sampling. At last, the probabilistic calculation results are discussed and compared with the ones using a deterministic method.},

keywords = {11. Weight Engineering - Aircraft Estimation, 21. Weight Engineering - Statistical Studies, Student Papers},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3749,

title = {3749. One Fits All? A Comparison of Weight Estimation Methods for Preliminary Aircraft Design},

author = {Arthur Kluender and Andreas Gobbin},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/paper-3749},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-07-01},

booktitle = {2020 SAWE Tech Fair},

pages = {17},

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

address = {Virtual Conference},

abstract = {Is there any compelling way to precisely determine the major masses of an aircraft in preliminary design stages? If so, do the results match the real airplane weight properties, when it is built? This paper presents a comprehensive overview of commonly used approaches, highlighting their individual (dis)advantages and eligibility for typical transport missions. The study evaluates widely used, of-the-book-methods for weight estimation and searches for the most accurate approach among them. Each method is applied to determine the masses of four different aircraft, each of them representing a typical aircraft category. The results are put in relation to the real masses, extracted from the corresponding manufacturers manual. In addition, an extended and modified method, already existing and being used at the Department for Aircraft Design and Lightweight Structures at the Technical University of Berlin, is included in the study and tested for its reliability. The overall objective of this paper is to evaluate, whether there is a method that precisely calculates all relevant masses or else, which one delivers the most accurate results for various aircraft types. In order to differentiate even further, the set of required input parameters is considered. In early design phases, typically only a few of those are known. Hence, a method that leads to accurate results with minimal input is favorable for preliminary design. The study indicates that none of the methods covers all the aircraft types. However, tendencies show that some approaches suit certain aircraft types better than others. Most of them provide satisfactory results for an average, jet-engine propelled, single aisle, medium range aircraft in conventional twinjet configuration. Regarding more unusual configurations, for example with turboprop engines, the outcome differs noticeably. Also, for long range aircraft, only a few methods produce realistic numbers. According to this exploration, guidelines on when to use which method are provided. This is followed by an outlook, giving recommendations on the development of new methods. Ultimately, a suggestion on how to consider new technologies and implement them into existing methods of weight estimation is given.},

keywords = {11. Weight Engineering - Aircraft Estimation, 21. Weight Engineering - Statistical Studies, Student Papers},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3758,

title = {3758. Strategies for the Grid Stiffened Composite Panel Topology Optimization for Minimum Weight},

author = {Mohit Talele and Ali Elham},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/paper-3758},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-07-01},

booktitle = {2020 SAWE Tech Fair},

pages = {25},

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

address = {Virtual Conference},

abstract = {In this paper, a topology optimization methodology for the minimum weight of the composite stiffened panel with the constraint on the criticial buckling load is presented. An existing finite element solver [1] for the analysis of the stiff- ened tow steered composite panels is extended to perform the topology optimiza- tion for the minimum weight. The panel and the stiffeners are modelled using 3 node traingular Classical Laminate Plate elements (CLPT) and 2 node timoshenko beam elements, respectively. To achieve the independent meshing of the plate and stringers, the Lagrange multiplier based on a weak formulation of the continuity requirements between the plate elements and the beam elements is used. For a specific critical buckling load, the optimum topology of the stiffeners in the stiff- ened composite panel depends not only on the stiffeners but also on the fiber patten of the composite panel. Therefore, design variables corrosponding to both fiber pattern in the skin and stiffeners needs to be considered. Manufacturing mesh ap- proach presented in [1], is used to define the design variables corrosponding to the fiber pattern. The ground structure method is implemented to optimize stringers topology. The cross-sectional area of the stringers in the ground structure are de- fined as the design variables corrosponding to the stiffeners. To perform the robust the optimization, the analytical gradients of the buckling load and the weight of the stiffened panel with respect to design variables are implemented and verified using finite difference. The optimization for the minimum weight is performed for the varied complexities of the ground structures with the constraints on the critical buckling load.},

keywords = {22. Weight Engineering - Structural Design, 27. Weight Reduction - Materials, Student Papers},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3760,

title = {3760. Design for Positive Static Margin for a Radio-Controlled Box-Wing Aircraft},

author = {Charlotte Bellerjeau},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/paper-3760},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-07-01},

booktitle = {2020 SAWE Tech Fair},

pages = {12},

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

address = {Virtual Conference},

abstract = {This paper will detail the aerodynamic design of a small unmanned box-wing aircraft to facilitate the study of turbulence by Dr. Brian Argrow at the CU Boulder. A design with no fuselage was necessary for the data collection, which presented a longitudinal stability challenge. The key to eventually achieving a stable design was weight placement for positive static margin. This paper will include the design process used to confront these issues. The initial choices of stagger, gap, decalage, and relative sweep are made using a simple model leveraging previous box-wing research. These, as well as the airfoil selection, are then investigated further using Athena Vortex Lattice (AVL) to analyze lift, drag, and stability. The final airframe design has a gap and stagger of 1 chord length, decalage of 5 degrees, and relative sweep of 30 degrees. A cambered NACA 6412 airfoil on the top wing and a reflexed NACA23112 airfoil on the bottom wing are selected, which combine to induce a positive pitching moment and aid in longitudinal stability. The resulting box-wing aircraft was flight tested successfully and will serve as an ideal platform for research at CU Boulder.},

keywords = {10. Weight Engineering - Aircraft Design, 34. Advanced Design, Student Papers},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3702,

title = {3702. Uncertainty Modelling in a Wing Weight Convergence Simulation Framework},

author = {T Ries and P Sartor and J Cooper and J Cheeseman},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/paper-3702},

year  = {2018},

date = {2018-05-01},

booktitle = {77th Annual Conference, Irving, Texas},

pages = {14},

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

address = {Irving, Texas},

abstract = {Weight is a key element in aircraft design, having a major influence on its performance and being a common factor to all disciplines involved in the decision making process, i.e. aero- dynamics, structural sizing, materials, loads, geometry, cost, manufacturing, etc. To ensure an optimal trade-off is achieved, alongside a smooth convergence to the desired final aircraft weight, it is essential to be able to model the aircraft weight estimation process throughout the design, including assessment of uncertainty and risk. Weight estimation processes and uncer- tainty analysis are well established bodies of literature. Yet, its unification into a framework that can deliver meaningful managerial information is a new research branch.This paper presents a new methodology for quantifying uncertainty and performing sensi- tivity studies on aircraft weight estimation. A framework has been developed that emulates the weight convergence corridor for an aircraft wing. It combines a traditional wing-box sizing method for primary weight with alternative methods for secondary weight. The alternative methods mimic the different phases of design in the aircraft development cycle. Maturity of design translates to the status of the information available, which translates to accuracy in the weight estimation method in use.This process incorporates uncertainty in the form of modelling the desired input parame- ters as probability density functions (PDFs). The uncertain input space may include wing and engine planform geometry, wing-box material properties, load cases, general aircraft weights and fuselage dimensions. Design features and aircraft components are correlated and there- fore an underlying dependency grid prevails. Combining the PDFs on the grid propagates the uncertainty towards an ultimate distribution of the total wing weight.This paper investigates the use of the framework developed for wing weight estimation by quantifying design sensitivities impact on wing weight. The methodology is demonstrated on a representative commercial jet airliner wing.},

keywords = {Student Papers},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}

@inproceedings{3703,

title = {3703. DRIFT: Drone-Rover Integrated Fire Tracker System},

author = {Nur Rashid and Syaminmah Deen and Amber Bishop and Daniel Collins and Brandon Cott and Samantha Growley and Pierce Lieberman and Kelsey Owens and Anthony Stanco and Matthew Stoffle and Nick Wiemelt},

url = {https://www.sawe.org/product/paper-3703},

year  = {2018},

date = {2018-05-01},

booktitle = {77th Annual Conference, Irving, Texas},

pages = {11},

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

address = {Irving, Texas},

abstract = {Wildfire reconnaissance and mitigation efforts are a primary concern for the United States Department of the Interior and National Forest Service. The critical consequences of climate change are becoming more prevalent with longer fire seasons throughout the Western United States [1]. The fire seasons are characterized by hotter and drier conditions, allowing for a wildfire to easily start and rapidly spread with the potential to burn millions of acres and cause billions of dollars in property loss. The National Forest Service (NFS) predicts that it will spend over half of its budget in the fight against wildfires within the next decade [2]. Wildfires can have devastating impacts on communities, ecosystems and wildlife, but also pose a dangerous threat to the fire fighters responsible for their mitigation and containment. A Mother Rover-Child Drone Firetracker System will assist firefighters by traveling to locations at risk of wildfire and gather environmental data which it then transmits back to the designated ground station. This provides information on a fire's intensity, severity, and extent while firefighters remain a safe distance away from the threat. Team DRIFT is a group of eleven undergraduate Aerospace Engineering Sciences students at the University of Colorado Boulder currently developing the Mother-Rover for the Firetracker System with the purpose to secure and carry the Child Drone (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) to a desired location of interest. The development of this Mother- Rover involves integrating the hardware and software of the already completed Child Drone and Landing Platform. The Mother Rover, approximately 46.3 by 58.9 inches, weighing 450 lbs and driven by a remote operator, is capable of traversing rough terrain, defined by small gravel, fine dirt, and slopes up to 20 degrees. Due to the image recognition system utilized on the landing platform for the autonomous landing of the Child Drone, the landing platform must be level to within 3.5 degrees in order for the child drone to safely take off and land. Therefore, the Mother Rover utilizes an internal leveling jack system to level in the landing platform to within 3.5 degrees if the child drone is to be deployed on a slope. The considerable weight of the Mother Rover presents a unique engineering challenge as it must be capable of traversing over the defined rough terrain while also maintaining the security of the onboard Child Drone. The design solution for this Mother Rover and associated leveling system will be discussed in this paper.},

keywords = {Student Papers},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {inproceedings}

}