Preliminary Design Study of a Micro Blended-Wing-Body Airplane: a Student Project

This study is dedicated to the "Micro Class" category of the SAE student competition, with the primary objective of developing a swiftly deployable, manually assembled Micro Blended-Wing-Body Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). Emphasis is placed on optimizing cargo capacity in relation to the empty weight of the radio-controlled unmanned aircraft. The design phase of this study is underpinned by the exacting utilization of advanced software modeling tools which play an indispensable role in the intricate processes of formulation, manipulation, and analysis of results, ensuring a level of precision commensurate with the rigorous standards of aerospace engineering. This iterative process unfolds with the finalization of three distinct designs, each subjected to a comprehensive evaluation encompassing static stress, displacement, and factor of safety analyses meticulously executed. Strategic considerations governing design dimensions and payload placement are integral components shaping the project's trajectory. Notably, the deliberate inclusion of a larger cargo box emerges as a pivotal decision, exerting a substantial influence on both flight score and overall balance. This strategic dimension underscores the judicious blend of engineering acumen and practical considerations, emphasizing the importance of payload configuration in the pursuit of optimal aircraft performance within the competitive context of the student competition. In summation, this scholarly endeavor stands as a testament to the synthesis of theoretical insights and applied engineering methodologies. The overarching goal is to not only meet but surpass the stringent criteria set forth by the competition, thereby contributing to the broader advancement of micro-UAV technology and in the field of aerospace engineering education.