Development of a pigeon shaped MAV for surveillance

Security and surveillance in complicated and difficult terrain, in case of any natural disaster emergency situation is a need of the day. Low cost, light weight and energy efficient micro air vehicles have appeared as vital tool to cope with such challenges. In this research, a design of such a low cost, light weight miniature size air vehicle is presented which could be used to explore D3 (Dull, Dirty, Dangerous) environments. As a first phase, a theoretical and mathematical framework was developed to apply multi-disciplinary design optimization (MDO) to the suggested micro air vehicle concept to achieve an optimized design. CFD (Computational Fluid dynamics) analysis and wind tunnel testing was then performed to analyze the aerodynamic performance and characteristics of the MAV design. Subsequent phases of development, implementation and detailed testing of the proposed conceptual design have been presented. The proposed design is a pigeon shaped air vehicle with a wing span of 0.3 meters and a flight range of 2 km with a minimum endurance of 30 minutes in both indoor and outdoor environments. Test benches and measurement mechanisms were developed for measurements of electrical and physical specifications. Bench testing was followed by ground testing in order to analyze the stability of the desired MAV in indoor environments. Finally, optimized weight distribution was calculated and a number of flight tests were performed which have fully proved practical validity of the proposed model. The significance of this research lies in need for battlefield reconnaissance, damage assessment, and visual surveillance. The primary aim of this research was to develop such a low cost search and survey aerial vehicle which could be used not only for search and surveillance during close combats and anti-terrorist operations but also for general civilians' security purposes. Recent security conditions around the world has created an immediate need for development of such low cost, light weight and easily portable miniature air vehicle. As a result of this research, a micro air vehicle has been successfully developed for the purpose.