Vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) technology has been on the rise in recent years, with electric-powered remote-control VTOLs being at the forefront of innovation. Designing and building a VTOL requires a deep understanding of aerodynamics and engineering principles, as well as advanced knowledge of electric propulsion systems. The VTOL competition is designed to encourage interest in unmanned aircraft technology and small air vehicle design and fabrication.
The Importance of VTOL Technology
VTOL technology has become increasingly important due to its potential to revolutionize transportation systems. Unlike traditional aircraft, VTOLs can take off and land vertically, making them more versatile and adaptable for a range of applications. They can be used for search and rescue operations, package delivery, and even urban air taxis. Given their versatility, VTOLs have the potential to transform the way we travel and transport goods, making them a key area of research and development.
VTOL Design and Fabrication Competition
The VTOL design and fabrication competition is an annual event that challenges university students to design and build their own VTOLs. The competition is designed to develop hands-on skills and familiarization with eVTOL and advanced air mobility (AAM) technology at the university student level and prepare the next generation of engineers and leaders to push the limits of this exciting technology into the future.
The competition is open to undergraduate and graduate level full-time students. Each team must have at least one faculty advisor and each team member must be a current member of the Vertical Flight Society (VFS). In addition, each team’s pilot must hold an FAA Part 107 Drone Certification or equivalent certifying authority.
The 2023 DBVF Results
The winners of the 2023 DBVF Student Competition were the Auburn University Vehicle Systems, Dynamics, and Design Laboratory (VSDDL). The competition saw several other competing teams, including Cooper Union Aerial Vehicle Team, Delft University of Technology Lambach Aircraft Team, University of Cincinnati Verticats Team, University of Maryland Autonomous Micro Aerial Vehicle Team, and the University of Michigan Vertical Flight Technology Team.
The competition saw a total of $5,000 in cash awards being given in two rounds. The preliminary design report winners received $300 each, and the overall competition winners received $2,000 for first place, $1,000 for second place, and $500 for third place.
The 2022 DBVF Results
The 2022 DBVF Student Competition was won by the Ohio State University team. The competition saw several other competing teams, including McGill University, University of Michigan, and Vaughn College of Aeronautics & Technology.
The preliminary design report winners received $300 each, and the overall competition winners received $2,000 for first place, $1,000 for second place, and $500 for third place.
The 2021 DBVF Results
The inaugural 2021 DBVF Student Competition was won by the University of Michigan team. The competition saw several other competing teams, including McGill University, Oregon State University, Pennsylvania State University, and Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology.
The preliminary design report winners received $300 each, and the overall competition winners received $2,000 for first place, $1,000 for second place, and $500 for third place.
Eligibility and Team Rules
To be eligible for the competition, each team member must be a full-time student and a current member of the VFS. Each team must have at least one faculty advisor, and the team’s pilot must hold an FAA Part 107 Drone Certification or equivalent certifying authority.
VTOL Design and Fabrication Process
Building a VTOL requires a deep understanding of aerodynamics, electric propulsion systems, and engineering principles. The design and fabrication process involves several steps, including conceptual design, detailed design, and fabrication.
In the conceptual design phase, the team develops a high-level design of the VTOL, including the overall configuration, flight control system, and propulsion system. In the detailed design phase, the team refines the design, including the aerodynamic and structural details of the vehicle. Finally, in the fabrication phase, the team builds and assembles the VTOL.
VTOL Testing and Evaluation
Once the VTOL is built, it is tested and evaluated to ensure that it meets the competition requirements. The VTOL must be capable of vertical take-off and landing, as well as stable and controlled flight. The VTOL’s flight performance is evaluated based on several factors, including speed, range, and payload capacity.
The Future of VTOL Technology
VTOL technology has the potential to revolutionize transportation systems and transform the way we travel and transport goods. With the continued research and development of VTOL technology, we can expect to see more advanced and versatile VTOL vehicles in the future. The VTOL design and fabrication competition plays a key role in developing and preparing the next generation of engineers and leaders to push the limits of this exciting technology into the future.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the VTOL design and fabrication competition is an annual event that challenges university students to design and build their own VTOLs. The competition is designed to develop hands-on skills and familiarization with eVTOL and advanced air mobility (AAM) technology at the university student level. The VTOL competition plays a key role in developing and preparing the next generation of engineers and leaders to push the limits of this exciting technology into the future.
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