Design Build Fly

Goal: Design an aircraft, incorporated with removeable fuel tanks, to launch an X-1 test vehicle.

When I first started, I didn’t know the first thing about RC aircraft design. Terms like ESC and receiver frightened me.

So I learned.

I helped configure the avionics for our first prototype—now I know that an ESC regulates the power to the motor. I developed the tail block and sections of the fuselage in OnShape—now I can navigate CAD. I fabricated components using 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines, bringing design to life with CAM.

My first year on CU DBF was my first exposure to applied, real world engineering. Following competition, I was left wanting more.

Goal: Design a banner-towing bush plane fitted with rubber duck passengers and hockey puck payloads.

Becoming a leader in engineering can be daunting: one must have technical and interpersonal skills to succeed. In learning and applying both skillsets through DBF, the club I had developed a passion for over the last year, I became energized.

I improved upon a MATLAB optimization code, working with the aerodynamics team to determine the most efficient motor and propeller combination. I validated this combination with a thrust test stand, involving new members with the hands on setup and calibration. Seeing the correlation between the model and hardware test data was invaluable.

Not only was I learning, but I was able to enhance the learning of other future engineers and leaders who would continue to build the team and beyond.