Research Project
Mars Science Helicopter: Mass Optimization
Research Team
Lead Researchers:
- Prof. Amiel Hartman, Mechanical Engineering
- Dr. Bingbing Li, Manufacturing Systems Engineering
- Dr. Ashley Geng, Electrical and Computer Engineering
Collaborators:
- Dr. Greg Agnes
- Dr. Larry Matthies
Student Team:
- Jared Carrillo
- Benjamin Sun
- Elliott Sadler
- Marshall Doyle
- Phanichandra Mylavarapu
Funding
- Funding Organization:
- Funding Program:
SYNOPSIS
Design elements to optimize mass requirements for the Mars Science Helicopter
- Mission Requirements
- Operate under specific temperature ranges, survive launch forces,
7-minute flight time, 30 m/s flight speed
- Operate under specific temperature ranges, survive launch forces,
- Design Criteria
- ~4 Meter Diameter (with arms) and ~1 Meter Diameter (Chassis)
- 18kg mass and payload mass of 2kg
- Foldable Design
Research Questions and Research Objectives
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Develop a Mars helicopter chassis optimized for
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Mass
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Vibrational Forces
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Thermal Issues
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Develop with new manufacturing concepts such as
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Generative Design
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Metal 3D Printing
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Carbon Fiber
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Validate design through digital twin simulations
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Omniverse
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Ansys
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Research Methods
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Use generative design to create lightweight, efficient drone structures for enhanced performance and rapid design iterations.
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Apply thermal optimization through custom CFD API for Fusion 360 to ensure the mechanical structure withstands extreme temperature fluctuations during the mission.
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Utilize finite element analysis to address mechanical and vibrational issues, ensuring system robustness in demanding environments.
Research Results and Deliverables
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Derived JPL Design Requirements
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Chassis Size Range
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Max Weight
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Finished standard chassis design and optimization as a reference point for testing against generative design iterations
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Isogrid Design
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Tube Truss Design
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Commercialization Opportunities
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Application: Decrease spacecraft iteration time and cost
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Key Values: Generative design, optimization, analysis
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Potential Customers: Space industry, automotive industry
Research Timeline
Start Date:
End Date:
Lead Researchers:
- Prof. Amiel Hartman, Mechanical Engineering
- Dr. Bingbing Li, Manufacturing Systems Engineering
- Dr. Ashley Geng, Electrical and Computer Engineering
Collaborators:
- Dr. Greg Agnes
- Dr. Larry Matthies
Student Team:
- Jared Carrillo
- Benjamin Sun
- Elliott Sadler
- Marshall Doyle
- Phanichandra Mylavarapu
Funding
- Funding Organization:
- Funding Program: