The University of Manchester’s engineers have just taken to the skies with what they believe could be the largest quadcopter drone ever built. While the university asserts there’s no larger one out there, there’s no independent confirmation of this record. As you might gather from the name, this quadcopter from the University of Manchester’s engineers is equipped with four propellers.
Weighing in at 24.5kg, this drone, which can also fly autonomously, narrowly falls within the 0.5kg margin below the weight limit set by the Civil Aviation Authority for drones of its kind. The Giant Foamboard Quadcopter (GFQ) took its maiden flight in July inside a hangar at the Snowdonia Aerospace Centre. Kieran Wood, a University Aerospace Systems lecturer, and the GFQ’s pilot, stressed the importance of nailing the first moments of flight, explaining, ‘There are hundreds of variables that must be perfectly managed.
Professor Bill Crowther, hailing from the university, remarked, ‘In the end, this design holds up a 25kg aircraft with just a few cleverly placed pieces of paper – that’s the art of what’s doable.’ The team’s next mission is to scale up their creation. Using materials that resemble cardboard in drone production may appear childlike, but the world of cardboard drones is a serious affair.
While the term “cardboard” may conjure images of flimsy packaging, these drones are no laughing matter. What sets these cardboard drones apart is their remarkable versatility in different challenging areas like battel fields or disaster zones. Soldiers on the field can swiftly assemble them, providing a tactical edge in various situations.
The strategic application of these drones is diverse. Initially designed for transporting critical supplies, there have been reports of on-site modifications, enabling them to carry munitions and actively participate in combat operations. The emergence of cardboard drones in different areas exemplifies the ever-evolving landscape of drone technology, proving that innovation can arise from unexpected sources, and their influence in modern warfare and logistics is undeniable.
Ukraine has received fixed-wing cardboard drones in a recent war-support supply from the Australian company SYPAQ. As of March, BNN news today disclosed that they were dispatching hundreds of these flat-packed drones to Ukraine every month. While their primary purpose is to transport supplies like blood, there have been instances of on-site modifications to enable them to carry weapons and join in offensive operations.
In the dynamic field of drone technology, the University of Manchester has firmly established itself as a pioneering force. With a commitment to innovation and cutting-edge research, the institution has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is achievable in the world of unmanned aerial vehicles.
The University of Manchester has been at the forefront of groundbreaking developments in drone technology, undertaking numerous projects that have garnered international attention. Their initiatives span various domains, from military and commercial applications to environmental monitoring and disaster response. With a dedicated team of researchers and a forward-thinking approach, the University of Manchester continues to lead the way in drone technology; BNN news today has witnessed significant strides that will undoubtedly shape the future of this rapidly evolving industry.
