IntroductIon

-By Debolina Bhattacharyya

Aerospace engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on the design,
development, testing, and production of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. It
encompasses two primary disciplines:

1. Aeronautical Engineering: Focused on the design and development of vehicles

that operate within Earth’s atmosphere, such as airplanes, helicopters, drones, and
missiles.
2. Astronautical Engineering: Focused on the design and development of vehicles
and systems that operate outside Earth’s atmosphere, such as satellites, space probes,
rockets, and space stations.

Key Areas of Study

Aerospace engineering integrates multiple fields of science and technology, including:

 Aerodynamics: The study of how air flows around objects and how this affects the
performance of vehicles.
 Propulsion Systems: The design and analysis of engines and systems that generate thrust,
including jet engines, rocket motors, and hybrid propulsion technologies.
 Structures and Materials: The development of lightweight, durable materials and structural
designs that withstand the extreme conditions of flight and space travel.
 Flight Mechanics and Stability: Understanding how vehicles maintain stability and control
during operation.
 Avionics and Control Systems: The development of onboard electronic systems and control
mechanisms.
 Space Systems Engineering: Includes satellite design, orbital mechanics, and mission
planning for space exploration.

Applications

Aerospace engineering plays a critical role in various industries:

 Aviation: Commercial and military aircraft design and maintenance.

 Space Exploration: Developing spacecraft, satellites, and launch vehicles for missions to
outer space.
 Defense: Designing missiles, drones, and other aerospace defense systems.
 Unmanned Systems: Building drones and autonomous flying vehicles for surveillance,
delivery, and more.

Why Aerospace Engineering Matters?

Aerospace engineering drives innovation and pushes the boundaries of human

exploration and transportation. From advancing global connectivity through air travel
to enabling humanity to explore other planets, this field addresses some of the most
exciting and challenging problems in science and engineering.
desIgn: glIder
-By Debolina Bhattacharyya
A glider is a type of aircraft designed to fly without an engine,
relying on aerodynamic lift and external forces like gravity,
thermals (rising warm air), or wind currents to stay aloft. Unlike
powered aircraft, gliders have long, slender wings that maximize lift
and minimize drag, enabling efficient, sustained flight. Gliders are
commonly used for recreational soaring, training, scientific research,
and even military purposes, such as reconnaissance. They demonstrate
the fundamental principles of flight and are a testament to human
ingenuity in harnessing natural forces for aviation.

How Do Gliders Work?

Gliders operate using the principles of aerodynamics:

 Lift: Generated by air flowing over the wings.

 Drag: Minimized through sleek, lightweight designs.
 Glide Ratio: A measure of how far a glider can travel forward for each unit of altitude lost
(e.g., 40:1 means 40 meters forward for 1 meter down).
To sustain flight, gliders rely on:
 Thermals: Rising columns of warm air.
 Ridge Lift: Air deflected upwards by hills or cliffs.
 Dynamic Soaring: Using wind gradients for sustained energy.

Advantages of Gliders

 No reliance on engines, making them cost-effective and silent.

 Environmentally friendly with no emissions.
 Teaches pilots to master natural forces and energy-efficient flight.

Applications of Gliders

1. Recreational Soaring: Popular among aviation enthusiasts for experiencing silent and skillful
flight.
2. Sport and Competitions: Involving cross-country races and acrobatic maneuvers.
3. Military Use: Silent troop and equipment transport (historically).
4. Scientific Research: Studying atmospheric conditions, weather patterns, and wind dynamics.
5. Training: Teaching pilots the fundamentals of flight and aerodynamics.
dImensIons and calculatIons
-By Debolina Bhattacharyya and Kumar Shubham
Parameter Value
Wingspan 2m
Fuselage Length 1.5 m
Wing Area (S) 0.31 m²
Wing Chord (c) 0.155 m (15.5 cm)
Wing Thickness 2.0 cm
Aileron Length 0.5 m (each wing)
Aileron Width 3.1 cm
Nose-to-Wing Distance 0.6 m
Center of Gravity (CG) Position 4.34 cm from LE
Horizontal Stabilizer Surface Area 0.068 m²
Horizontal Stabilizer Wingspan 0.52 m
Horizontal Stabilizer Average Chord 13 cm
Horizontal Stabilizer Inner Chord 14.3 cm
Horizontal Stabilizer Outer Chord 11.7 cm
Elevator Surface Area 0.0204 m²
Main Wing Leading Edge to Stabilizer Leading Edge 43.4 cm
Vertical Stabilizer Surface Area 0.0238 m²
Vertical Stabilizer Height Above Fuselage 0.45 m
Vertical Stabilizer Lower Chord 10 cm
Vertical Stabilizer Upper Chord 5 cm
Rudder Surface Area 0.0083 m²
Wing Loading 22.6 - 29.0 d/gm^2
Aileron Ratio 5%
Elevator Ratio 30%
Rudder Ratio 35%
Glide Ratio (L/D) 15

Thrust required = TWR * Weight = 0.9 * 0.7 or 0.9*0.9 = 630 gm(for weight 700 gm) to 900
gm(for weight 900gm) of thrust.
Dihedral Angle (θ) Calculation:
58 58
𝜃= +1= + 1 ≈ 4.46∘ ≈ 4.5∘
𝐴𝑅 13
Wingtip Rise (h) Calculation:
𝑏 2
ℎ= × sin(𝜃) = × sin(4.5∘ ) = 1 × 0.0785 ≈ 0.0785 m = 7.85 cm
2 2
Flight Time Calculation
Battery Selection:
We have chosen a 2200mAh 3S 25C LiPo battery, which can provide 2200mAh of capacity and
a maximum current draw of 55A (since 2200 mAh × 25𝐶 = 55 A).

 Motor Power: 250W

 Voltage of Battery (3S LiPo): 11.1V (nominal voltage)
The current draw of the motor is given by:
𝑃 250 W
𝐼= = ≈ 22.5 A
𝑉 11.1 V
Duration of Flight Time:

Battery Capacity (mAh) 2200 mAh

Flight Time = = ≈ 0.098 hours = 5.88 minutes
Motor Current Draw (mA) 22,500 mA

Current Draw for Other Components

 Total Current Draw (avionics): the total current draw for avionics can be
approximated:
𝐼avionics = 4 × 300 mA(servos) + 50 mA (receiver) = 1.3 A
Total Current Draw (Motor + Avionics):
The total current draw for the entire system at full throttle is:
𝐼total = 𝐼motor + 𝐼avionics = 22.5 A + 1.3 A = 23.8 A
Estimated Total Flight Time Including Gliding Periods
If we use the motor intermittently (e.g., 15% full-throttle for climbing and 85% gliding), the
average power consumption will drop.
Let’s approximate:
 Motor power at full throttle: 250W
 Average motor power for gliding (15% throttle): 250𝑊 × 0.15 = 37.5𝑊
 Total average power draw (motor + avionics): 37.5𝑊 + 1.3𝐴 × 11.1𝑉 ≈ 37.5𝑊 +
14.43𝑊 = 51.93𝑊
Battery Energy (Wh)
Flight Time (hours) =
Average Power Consumption (W)
 Battery Energy = 2200𝑚𝐴ℎ × 11.1𝑉 = 24.42𝑊ℎ
24.42 Wh
Flight Time = ≈ 0.47 hours = 28.2 minutes
51.93 W

Parameter Value
Motor Power Consumption 250W
Motor Current Draw at Full Throttle 22.5A
Battery Capacity 2200mAh
Battery Energy 24.42Wh
Flight Time (Full Throttle) 5.88 minutes
Flight Time (Intermittent Throttle) 28.2 minutes
Total Current Draw (Full Throttle) 23.8A
Total Current Draw (Gliding) 4.675A
CAD MODEL
-By Debolina Bhattacharyya
Powered by TCPDF (www.tcpdf.org)
 AIRFOIL DESCRIPTION AND
ANALYSIS
BY RISHI AGARWAL

NACA 4412 Airfoil

Definition:

The NACA 4412 is a widely used airfoil profile developed by the National Advisory Committee for
Aeronautics (NACA). It belongs to the 4-digit series, where "44" indicates maximum camber as 4% of
the chord at 40% from the leading edge, and "12" denotes a maximum thickness of 12% of the
chord.

Key Characteristics:
1. Camber: 4% of chord length, leading to a good lift generation.

2. Thickness: 12% of chord, ensuring structural stability and moderate drag.

3. Symmetry: Unsymmetrical, making it suitable for applications requiring lift.

4. Ease of Use: Well-documented and simple to fabricate for various experiments.

Applications:
1. Gliders: Ideal for small-scale gliders.

2. Light Aircraft: Used in training aircraft for stable and predictable performance.

3. Wind Turbines: Occasionally applied in low-speed turbine blades.

4. RC Models: Popular in hobby and educational RC aircraft.

Aerodynamic Data:
1. Lift Coefficient (Cl): Reaches a maximum of ~1.6 at a high angle of attack (~16°).

2. Drag Coefficient (Cd): Low at moderate angles of attack, typically around 0.006 at low
Reynolds numbers.

3. Stall Characteristics: Gentle stall behavior, making it forgiving and predictable.

4. Reynolds Number Range: Performs well in low to moderate Reynolds numbers (e.g., 10^5 to
10^6).

Strengths:
1. High Lift: Generates sufficient lift even at low speeds.

2. Predictable Behavior: Linear lift curve and gentle stall make it beginner-friendly.

3. Versatile: Performs adequately across various applications.

4. Ease of Analysis: Abundant aerodynamic data and simulations available.

Weaknesses:
1. Moderate Drag: Not optimized for minimal drag, limiting efficiency at high speeds.

2. Limited Laminar Flow: Suffers from early transition to turbulence compared to modern
airfoils.

3. Lower Efficiency: Less efficient at high Reynolds numbers compared to advanced airfoils.
Materials for Building
-By Naman Gupta

1. Structural Materials

1.1 Carbon Fiber Rods

 Quantity: 10
 Purpose: Carbon fiber rods are used to reinforce the structure of the RC glider. Their
lightweight nature ensures that they do not add unnecessary mass to the glider, while their
high tensile strength provides rigidity. These rods are typically installed along the wings and
fuselage to resist bending and ensure structural stability during flight. Additionally, their
resistance to corrosion and wear makes them durable, even under varying environmental
conditions.

Carbon fiber rods are strategically positioned in areas experiencing maximum stress,
such as the wing spars and tail boom. By distributing the loads effectively, these rods
prevent structural failures during sharp maneuvers or hard landings, which is critical
for long-term usability of the glider.

1.2 Foam Board (3mm Thick)

 Quantity: 5
 Purpose: Foam boards serve as the primary construction material for the wings and fuselage.
The 3mm thickness strikes a balance between being lightweight and providing sufficient
rigidity. Foam boards are easy to cut, shape, and assemble, making them ideal for creating
aerodynamic surfaces that maximize lift and minimize drag.

The foam’s flexibility allows for creating precise airfoil profiles that enhance the
glider’s lift-to-drag ratio. Moreover, its insulating properties help in maintaining the
structural integrity during temperature changes, ensuring consistent flight
performance across varying weather conditions.

1.3 Epoxy Glue

 Quantity: 1
 Purpose: Epoxy glue is a strong adhesive used to bond critical structural components. Its long
curing time allows for precise adjustments during assembly, ensuring a strong and durable
connection between materials. This is particularly important in areas subject to high stress,
such as joints in the fuselage and wing spars.

Epoxy glue's versatility also enables it to bond dissimilar materials like carbon fiber
and foam securely. This feature is crucial in maintaining the overall strength of the
glider, especially during abrupt changes in flight dynamics.
1.4 CA Glue

 Quantity: 1
 Purpose: Cyanoacrylate (CA) glue is a quick-drying adhesive that is used for assembling small
parts and making rapid repairs. It is especially useful for securing components like control
horns and hinges where a strong but immediate bond is required.

CA glue is also highly effective in sealing minor cracks and reinforcing weak joints,
making it indispensable for on-the-spot repairs during flight testing or competitions.
Its precision applicators allow for detailed work without adding unnecessary weight.

1.5 Hinges

 Quantity: 7
 Purpose: Hinges connect movable control surfaces such as ailerons, elevators, and rudders
to the fixed structure of the glider. They allow for smooth and precise movement of these
surfaces, which is essential for controlling the glider’s pitch, roll, and yaw during flight.

Made of durable yet lightweight materials, hinges provide reliability in frequent

operations. Properly aligned hinges reduce friction and wear, ensuring consistent
responsiveness of control surfaces throughout the glider’s lifespan.

1.6 Control Horns

 Quantity: 4
 Purpose: Control horns are mounted on control surfaces and act as attachment points for
push rods. They transfer the motion from the servos to the control surfaces, enabling the
pilot to manipulate the glider’s orientation and direction effectively.

Constructed from high-strength plastic or metal, control horns are designed to

withstand the forces exerted by the servos. Their secure attachment ensures precise
control over the glider’s maneuverability, particularly during high-speed or turbulent
conditions.

1.7 Push Rods

 Quantity: 4
 Purpose: Push rods transmit the mechanical motion from the servo motors to the control
horns. They are a crucial link in the control system, ensuring that the pilot’s inputs are
accurately translated into the movement of the control surfaces.

Push rods are typically made of lightweight metal or reinforced plastic, ensuring
minimal flex during operation. Adjustable connectors at both ends allow for fine-
tuning of control surface movements, providing the precision needed for smooth and
stable flight.
1.8 Screws and Nuts

 Quantity: 10
 Purpose: Screws and nuts are used to securely fasten various structural parts of the glider.
Their ability to provide a removable connection allows for easy assembly, dis-assembly, and
maintenance of the glider’s components.

These fasteners are usually made of stainless steel or lightweight aluminum, offering
corrosion resistance and strength. Their versatility makes them ideal for securing
components like motor mounts, servo trays, and wing attachments.

2. Electronic Components

2.1 Brush-less Motor (KV:1000–1400)

 Quantity: 1
 Purpose: The brush-less motor serves as the propulsion system for the glider. Its high
efficiency and reliability make it ideal for powering the glider. The KV-1000 rating indicates
that the motor can achieve 1000 revolutions per minute (RPM) per volt supplied, providing
the necessary thrust for sustained flight.

Brush-less motors are preferred for their low maintenance requirements and smooth
operation. Paired with the right propeller, this motor can deliver optimal thrust-to-
weight ratio, allowing for steady climbs and efficient gliding.

Motor Recommendation

A motor with a KV rating and power output suitable for gliders will be efficient and
provide the desired thrust.

Motor Specifications:

 KV Rating: 1000-1400KV
 Thrust Output: 1000–1300gm on a 3S battery (11.1V)
 Power Rating: 180-250W

Suggested Motors:

1. Racerstar BR2212 1400KV

 Weight: ~47g
 Max Thrust: ~1.1 kg (with 9x5 prop on 3S).
 Power Required: ~170–200W.
 Current Draw: ~18–22A (on 3S).
  Propeller Recommendation: 9x5 or 8x6 folding propeller.

2. A2212 1000KV

 Weight: ~53g
 Max Thrust: ~1.1 kg (with 10x6 prop on 3S).
 Power Required: ~150–190W.
 Current Draw: ~15–19A (on 3S).
 Propeller Recommendation: 10x5 or 10x6 folding propeller

3. A2212 1400KV

 Weight: ~53g
 Max Thrust: ~1.1 kg (with 9x6 prop on 3S).
 Power Required: ~170–220W.
 Current Draw: ~18–22A (on 3S).
 Propeller Recommendation: 9x5 or 8x6 propeller.

4.DYS BE2212 1000KV

 Weight: ~55g
 Max Thrust: ~1.1 kg (with 10x5 prop on 3S).
 Power Required: ~150–190W.
 Current Draw: ~16–19A (on 3S).
 Propeller Recommendation: 10x5 or 10x6 folding propeller.

2.2 Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) (30amp)

 Quantity: 1
 Purpose: The ESC regulates the power delivered from the battery to the motor, allowing the
pilot to control the motor’s speed. The 30-amp rating ensures that it can handle the current
requirements of the brush-less motor without overheating or failing.

In addition to speed control, the ESC features safety mechanisms like low-voltage
cutoff and thermal protection, safeguarding the electronics during operation. These
features enhance reliability and protect the components during prolonged flights.

ESC must handle the motor's current draw plus some headroom:

 Amp Rating: 30A–40A (depending on the motor's max current draw).

 Features: Ensure the ESC has a BEC (Battery Eliminator Circuit) to power your receiver and
servos.
 Example Models:
o Hobbywing Skywalker 30A/40A.
o ZTW Spider 30A.

2.3 Li-Po Battery (2200mAh)

 Quantity: 1
  Purpose: The Li-Po (Lithium Polymer) battery is a lightweight and high-capacity power source
that supplies energy to the motor, ESC, receiver, and servos. The 2200mAh capacity provides
a balance between weight and flight duration, ensuring the glider can stay airborne for an
extended period.

Li-Po batteries are known for their high discharge rates, which are essential for
delivering bursts of power during takeoff or steep climbs. Proper handling and
charging practices are crucial to maintaining their performance and longevity.

Battery Recommendation

To maintain efficiency and match the thrust requirements:

 Battery Type: 3S (11.1V) LiPo.

 Capacity: 2200mAh.
 C-Rating: 25C–30C.

Example Batteries:

 Turnigy 2200mAh 3S 25C LiPo Battery (~200g).

 Gens ace 2200mAh 3S 25C LiPo Battery (~190g).

2.4 Servos (SG-90)

 Quantity: 4
 Purpose: Servos are small, lightweight motors that control the movement of the ailerons,
elevator, and rudder. The SG-90 model, weighing only 9 grams, is ideal for RC planes due to
its compact size and precision. These servos convert electrical signals into mechanical motion,
enabling accurate control of the glider’s orientation.

The SG-90 servos feature durable gears and smooth rotation, ensuring reliability
during repetitive operations.

2.5 Receiver (Rx) (6 Channels)

 Quantity: 1
 Purpose: The receiver is the component that receives signals from the transmitter and relays
them to the servos and ESC. A 6 channel receiver is necessary to control the throttle, ailerons,
elevator, and rudder, ensuring comprehensive control of the glider.

Advanced receivers offer features like fail-safe modes, which ensure the glider
maintains a stable configuration in case of signal loss. This enhances the safety and
reliability of the overall system.

2.6 Transmitter (Tx) (6 Channels)

 Quantity: 1
  Purpose: The transmitter is a hand-held device used by the pilot to send control signals to
the receiver. A 6 channel transmitter allows for precise control over the motor’s throttle and
the movement of the control surfaces, enabling stable and responsive flight.

Modern transmitters often include customizable settings, allowing pilots to fine-tune

control sensitivities and mixing functions for optimized performance. Ergonomic
designs also contribute to ease of use during extended flight sessions.

2.7 Propeller

 Quantity: 1
 Purpose: The propeller generates thrust by converting the rotational motion of the motor
into forward motion. The specifications refers to the diameter (in inches) and pitch (in
inches), which are optimized for the glider’s motor to provide efficient propulsion and
maintain a steady flight speed.

Properly balanced propellers reduce vibrations, ensuring smoother operation and

better efficiency. The material used, typically plastic or composite, combines
durability with lightweight properties for enhanced performance.
 Area of Power Glider Prone to Damage

S.No Part of Glider Description

1 Motor and Propeller Damage Type: Cracks, bends, or breakage in propeller; bent motor shafts;

damaged motor windings or bearings.

Reason: Propellers are often the first point of contact in a crash. Lightweight

materials are brittle.

Impact: Unstable thrust, inefficient flight, or total inoperability.

2 Frame and Fuselage Damage Type: Cracks, dents, or deformation in foam board or structural rods.

Reason: The fuselage absorbs crash impact, especially if made of lightweight

foam board.

Impact: Compromised aerodynamic integrity, reduced stability, and poor flight

performance.

3 Wings Damage Type: Cracks, warping, or detachment of control surfaces (e.g.,

ailerons).

Reason: Wings experience high stress during impact due to their large surface

area and leverage.

Impact: Reduced lift, poor roll control, and compromised gliding efficiency.

4 Horizontal and Vertical Stabilizers

Damage Type: Cracking, bending, or detachment of stabilizers; damage to

elevator and rudder.

Reason: Located at the tail and vulnerable to crashes or hard landings.

Impact: Loss of pitch (elevator) or yaw (rudder) control, leading to unstable flight

dynamics.

5 Battery Pack Damage Type: Swelling, punctures, or internal short circuits.

Reason: Sensitive to impact; hard crashes can puncture casing, causing thermal

runaway.

Impact: Fire hazards, power loss, and reduced flight duration.

6 Control System Damage Type: Loose or broken push rods, stripped servo gears, or detached

control horns.

Reason: Mechanical connections are stressed during impacts or hard landings.

Impact: Reduced or complete loss of control over flight surfaces, impacting

maneuverability.

7 Joints and Fasteners Damage Type: Loose screws or epoxy bond failure at critical joints.

Reason: Vibrations, prolonged use, or crashes can weaken these connections.

Impact: Loss of structural integrity, leading to misaligned components or mid-flight

failures.