Implementation of FDM technology in MALE UAVs

Abstract

The FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) technology can be exploited for manufacturing of Medium Altitude Long Endurance Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (MALE UAVs); specifically, fixed wing Radio-controlled (RC) aircrafts. There are numerous substantial advantages of using this technology over other conventional materials like Styrofoam sheets, Balsa wood, EPP Foam boards etc. Considering the ecological advantages, unlike other Fiber Reinforced Plastics (FRPs), Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) is completely biodegradable in nature. The main aim of using such material and development technique is its promptness in terms of manufacturing and its eco-friendliness. Moreover, it helps to increase strength of the structure while decreasing its weight, thereby improving the strength to weight ratio to a considerable extent. It gives a considerable amount of independence to a designer to strategically densify an area; which is to experience greater impact loading (for e.g. landing gear, nose tip etc.) and compensate the same by reducing weight wherever possible. The manufacturing complexities that are faced in fabricating an aerodynamic shaped fuselage using any other technique can be eradicated to a great extent. Furthermore, it provides an ease of manufacturing of a complex customized product consecutively imparting an excellent build-precision at an economic pricing strategy. Finally, an ample amount of time can be saved and unnecessary human intervention can be avoided in the event of mass-manufacturing.