Yuvan S's Senior Project Blog

Project Title: Designing a more energy-efficient drone BASIS Advisor: Mr. Kwit Internship Location: Remote Onsite Mentor: N/A

Project Abstract

My project explores a novel design for creating interlocking drones that can dynamically attach to create three-dimensional structures. With my design, drones with cube frames operate in a swarm to dynamically connect to build three-dimensional structures thus creating more applications for drones. The project looks into the methodology to create such a drone. Each drone is a specially engineered frame that allows them to connect to each other with magnets. The drones also contain IR LEDs on the outside which are tracked by 4 cameras in a room. This data is then sent to a computer to map out where the drones are in 3D space. The drones then use this data sent over a specially designed protocol to understand where other drones are in the same space, allowing them to connect to other drones to create 3D structures. Data was first collected using a thrust stand built with a strain gauge scale. The thrust data of a singular drone and two drones were analyzed. Then, the drone’s ability to transfer current was analyzed over the contacts allowing the drones to share power. After, the force required to separate the drones was analyzed to be used for future improvements such as the separation of the drones midflight. The project attempts to show the project's potential applications if scaled up. It shows how maneuverable small drones can assemble in three-dimensional shapes to form drones that have larger thrusts or to create useful structures in time-constrained situations. With enough drones, Such structures could include making large antenna arrays, bridges, or shelters.