Design and Implementation of A Low-Cost Parachute Landing System for Fixed-Wing Mini Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

Year 2024, Volume: 8 Issue: 3, 198 - 205, 22.10.2024

Fatma Yıldırım Dalkıran , Emre Kırteke

https://doi.org/10.30518/jav.1479457

Abstract

Fixed-wing mini-UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) face difficulties due to the need for runways during take-off and landing. While fixed-wing UAVs are capable of using catapults during take-off, various landing systems are required for landing. Therefore, in this study, a parachute system design and production were carried out for the safe landing of fixed-wing mini-UAVs. The produced parachute utilized ultra-lightweight ripstop nylon fabric and suspension lines, while a carbon fiber tube was chosen for the launching system for its lightweight and strength. The parachute deployment system was triggered by a servo motor with low power consumption and high torque. During tests, the parachute was activated at a height of 47 meters during flight. The parachute deployment was completed in 1.42 seconds, and the descent with the parachute lasted 11 seconds. The vertical descent speed of the parachute during landing was measured at 4.27 m/s. The produced parachute landing system was manufactured at 71% lower cost compared to existing parachute landing systems in the literature and on the market. Additionally, the ultra-light ripstop parachute weighed 56 grams, making it 12% lighter than similar systems. Considering the advantages in terms of cost and weight, it is anticipated that parachute landing systems will be increasingly used for fixed-wing UAVs in the future.

Keywords

Fixed UAV, Parachute, Parachute Landing System, Parachute Fabric

Project Number

FYL-2022-12008

Thanks

This work has been supported by Erciyes University Scientific Research Projects Coordination. The unit is under grant number code FYL-2022-12008.

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