Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: Novosibirsk State University –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Egor Pobezhimov, 2nd year master's student Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics of NSU, is implementing a project to create a test stand for a propeller-motor group with a thrust of up to 2 kg for unmanned aerial vehicles. The project became one of the winners of the federal competition "Student Startup", within the framework of which budding entrepreneurs are allocated 1 million rubles for a period of one year.
— The idea of the project arose from university research and engineering practice: a tool for objective analysis of the propeller-motor group was needed, which was lacking on the market. Currently, when designing and testing drones, there is an acute shortage of available full-featured stands. Existing solutions are either too expensive or do not take into account the vibroacoustic characteristics that are critically important for increasing efficiency and improving the operation of UAVs, — says Egor Pobezhimov.
So, now typical tests of VMG in design bureaus or laboratories are carried out manually: when working on a new prototype, the selection of propellers, modes, recording of parameters and data processing take from 2-3 weeks to 1-2 months. If we talk about the testing process itself, then one test takes on average one to two days. And to conduct full-fledged tests, it is necessary to conduct more than a dozen such tests.
— The stand and the availability of standardized test scenarios will reduce this time to two hours and obtain a larger set of data from which more information can be extracted. This directly reduces the cost: less time for specialists, less expenses on full-scale flights and replacement of failed components, — Yegor explains.
The solutions existing on the market have a number of limitations: they measure only basic parameters (thrust and current) and involve manual testing scenarios. The stand created at NSU comprehensively measures not only basic parameters (thrust, speed, electrical characteristics), but also vibrations and acoustic noise, provides a synchronous analysis of the power plant operation, which allows identifying anomalies and optimizing characteristics.
— Unlike existing solutions, our stand combines mechanics, electronics and software into a single system. Our product includes automated standard tests and built-in analysis and visualization. In addition, we will have a modular design with the ability to scale. And an important point: we offer not only equipment, but also testing services, which our competitors do not have, — adds Egor.
The project started in 2024. At present, the components and implementation algorithm have been defined; the concept of software and hardware parts has been developed, i.e. the architecture and methods of receiving and exchanging information between the source sensors, control software and the user. In addition, the necessary laboratory base has been created at NSU, where further work on the project will be carried out. A team has been formed, and agreements have been reached with design bureaus on testing.
The grant funds will be used for design, purchasing components, assembling and debugging the system, calibrating sensors and developing software, as well as paying for the team's work, registering patents, marketing and launching it to market.
It is expected that in a year a fully operational stand will be ready, which is a compact cubic frame with vibration isolation and protection against screw destruction, and also includes sensors for measuring various parameters and a controller. As for the software, a desktop application will be created, including an interface for collecting, storing and analyzing data, test scenarios. The development language is Python and C, and in the future it is also possible to integrate machine learning methods for predictive diagnostics.
The solution will find application in design bureaus engaged in the development of UAVs, for the selection of propeller-motor groups and the detection of defects; in production for quality and reliability control; in the "smart city" for reducing noise and improving the operation of delivery drones, etc.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
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