What was accomplished

As this was the first official week for the mechanical department, the primary focus was on conceptual brainstorming to define the optimal frame architecture for this year's SUAS competition. The team proposed and analyzed two initial configurations: a quadcopter with an 8-motor coaxial setup (X8 configuration) and a standard hexacopter with 6 arms. The goal was to find a platform capable of handling heavy payloads while maintaining stability in adverse weather conditions.

Challenges and solutions

The main challenge this week was evaluating the critical aerodynamic and mechanical drawbacks of these initial concepts. The 8-motor coaxial quadcopter offered immense lifting thrust but introduced severe aerodynamic inefficiencies and reduced battery life due to coaxial prop wash interference. Conversely, the hexacopter provided motor redundancy and stability but significantly increased the overall weight, footprint, and aerodynamic drag of the airframe. Recognizing these limitations, the team concluded that neither concept perfectly aligned with the mission's strict efficiency and weight requirements, necessitating further thought and alternative structural designs for the upcoming week.

Next Steps Plan

Continue the conceptual phase by brainstorming alternative frame architectures, specifically looking for a lighter, more efficient configuration that balances payload capacity with structural simplicity.