eVTOL Aircraft Landing Gear Design

  • Relevant Skills: SolidWorks, Rapid Prototyping, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Collaborative Design, Critical Thinking, Creativity
  • Situation: The project involved designing the landing gear for a 1/8 scale model of an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, requiring precise engineering to ensure stability, weight support, and functionality while adhering to FAA regulations.
  • Task: Develop a landing gear system with specific criteria, including dimensions, material selection, and compliance with FAA regulations, while collaborating with software and business subteams to optimize for safety, efficiency, and cost.
  • Action:
    • Conducted thorough research on landing gear structures to ensure FAA compliance and collaborated with software and business subteams.
    • Designed a robust clamping mechanism using SolidWorks, optimizing the angle for efficient design and manufacturing.
    • Developed four iterative prototypes, incorporating feedback and performing Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to address vulnerabilities.
    • Utilized 3D printing for rapid prototyping and conducted rigorous stress tests, adjusting the design based on test results.
    • Assembled the final landing gear model, ensuring all components met design specifications and FAA regulations.
  • Result: The final design supported the aircraft's weight, provided stability during landings and take-offs, complied with FAA regulations, and was optimized for safety, efficiency, and cost. The use of SolidWorks, FEA, and iterative prototyping resulted in a lightweight, robust landing gear system, enhancing the performance and safety of the eVTOL scale model.
Prototype Image 1
Prototype Image 2
Final Design Image