Conventional versus Reinforced Additive Manufacturing in Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Design

Additive manufacturing has significantly impacted the research and development of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, enabling rapid prototyping and fast production. A framework for designing and manufacturing parts of specialized multirotor UAVs is considered, incorporating the process of mechanical testing of 3D printed specimens. Based on material testing, it is possible to construct parts with the required mechanical properties while retaining a lightweight and low-cost airframe. Tests were conducted on five series of specimens that were 3D printed with a different combination of technologies, materials, and parameters. The results are shown graphically, and mechanical properties can be compared for further testing and use in aircraft design.