Mechanical aspects of mothership with sensing drones system

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to describe the mechanical aspects of unmanned Mothership Plane and Sensing Drones. The presented conceptual system shows the idea and possible way of designing different sizes and objective systems based on experience gained during the SAE Aero Design Competition. Design/methodology/approach The UAS is based on a SAE Aero Design Competition designed and manufactured Mothership Plane converted to a high endurance platform modified to launch up to six small copters. The process of designing and converting the Mothership is described. The methodology of selecting and planning either the structure or hardware of the drones is presented. Findings A key finding is that the presented conception of mothership plane deploying in flight a group of small sensing multirotors is achievable. Moreover, the modular build of the system provides the possibility to adapt currently existing unmanned aircrafts to be converted to the described mothership plane. Practical implications To conduct flight tests and to study encountered problems. Presentation of the unmanned aerial system (UAS) concept that can be used to scan an area and create 3D maps for Search and Rescue missions as well as agriculture applications. Originality/value The paper describes the conceptual approach to design a UAS consisting of the mothership plane and the sensing drones. The paper highlights the potential solutions gained by using such a UAS. The focus is to present a technology and system that can perform real time observations in widespread and difficult to reach areas.