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ProductsNASA’s New UAV is 80% 3D-Printed
One of the keys to Urban Air Mobility (UAM) is exploring how different technologies and configurations of aircraft will perform in the urban environment. NASA’s newest modular unmanned aerial system, the Langley Aerodrome #8 (LA-8), is a testbed to investigate these technologies.
Hydraulic Propulsion an Alternative to Drone Batteries
Drones require heavy batteries or lots of electrical components, which leaves little room for the actual payload. A Purdue University team came up with a method to use fluid power technology for autonomous vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) vehicles.
US and Japanese Scientists Conduct Joint Composites Study
Dr. Keisuke Umezawa of the Air Systems Research Center in the Japanese Ministry of Defense (JMoD) recently joined the Air Force Research Laboratory on an engineers and scientists exchange program (ESEP). The JMoD chose Umezawa for the ESEP based on his experience as a stress analysist of polymer matrix composite materials. Also, Umezawa has been heavily involved in the development of the next generation Japanese fighter aircraft, including the development of the test program for prototype PMC structures.
Projection System to Study Insect Vision Could Lead to New Navigational Aids
Development of a virtual reality-like projection system to study insect vision could eventually provide the U.S. Air Force with a new type of navigation system.
Wearable Sensors Could Monitor Personal, Environmental Data
In an effort to enhance soldier lethality, Army researchers are developing biorecognition receptors capable of consistent performance in multi-domain environments with the ability to collect real-time assessments of soldier health and performance.
Insect-Inspired Arm Improve Drones
Most drones are not able to withstand wind because of their fixed-arm design. But a new drone design works in windy conditions, is more energy-efficient, and can handle a larger payload. It was inspired by the wings and flight patterns of insects and incorporates automatic folding arms that can make in-flight adjustments.
How Flying Cars Could Change the Aerospace Industry
A new study of the environmental sustainability impacts of flying cars (electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, or VTOLs) finds that they wouldn’t be suitable for a short commute but could be valuable in congested cities or in places where there are geographical constraints.
