Design and Development of 3D Printed Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for Virtual Surveyal of Victims Trapped in Burning Structures

Overview

This project rendered a CAD model for the 3D printing of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) equipped with fireproof capabilities, a surveyal camera, and potential for 5G implementation. This device was manufactured with polyether ether ketone (PEEK), a material that retains mechanical performance at temperatures of up to 480 °F. The Aerial Fire Rescue Solution (A.F.R.S) worked in conjunction with the Applied Science Department at Penn State to generate a safety UAV that eliminates the risk for those who would have to enter burning structures to search for undiscovered victims.

Objectives

This drone design seeks to reduce the hazards and ensure the safety of victims and rescuers, through the control of the system with 5G. An easily manufacturable, cost effective model will be standardized for feasible printing in all required hazardous situations.

Approach

This project was accomplished through the:
– Collaboration with the sponsor, Simon Miller, and the academic advisor, Dr. Jingjing Li, for planning the approach to generate an Alpha, Beta, and Final prototype
– Design of CAD models within the expected guidelines for manufacturing and assembly
– Research of the optimization of cost, weight, and size expectations without compromising functionality of the drone
– Merging Applied Research Laboratory components with existing hardware
– Performance of finite element analysis for assessment of thermal property performance

Outcomes

– Fully functional, 3D printed, PEEK UAV with a flying time of more than 10 minutes and full functionality in extreme thermal environments
– Competitive production price range, reasonable affordability, and easily manufacturable design for ease of widespread implementation
– Application of 5G capabilities for operational camera and drone control
– Generation of a device to optimize safety of rescuers and potential victims