Automation of Design and Prototyping of Micro Aerial Vehicle

The presented work is centered on the automation of the design process of Micro or MiniAerial Vehicles (MAV). A design optimization framework that links together a CAD systemfor airframe design and a panel code for aerodynamic evaluations has been developed. Thispaper is based on research and results previously published by the research team. Itdescribes the experiences made so far, and demonstrates with a case study, how fullyautomated design is indeed possible. The user is required to enter the initial requirementsinto the system that will then optimize the MAV design. Both the geometry and thepropulsion system are taken into account. Finally, a 3D printer is used for manufacturing ofthe aircraft. The optimization comprises both discrete and continuous variables. Validationof common propulsion system models is also presented.