This project involves the design and construction of a prototype Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) airplane, capable of carrying two people... Show moreThis project involves the design and construction of a prototype Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) airplane, capable of carrying two people. The prototype, which will be made to scale, is intended to test different control strategies. The project includes a study of the history of such concepts (commercial and military), review of the enabling technologies needed to make it a reality, market analysis, social and economic implications, the regulatory environment and other factors that help define the potential and predict the impact of such a vehicle Sponsorship: IIT Internal R&D Project Plan for IPRO 318: VTOL for the Spring 2001 semester Show less
Students will convert a Quicksilver MXII ultralight airplane to run on E85 fuel (85% ethanol, 15% gasoline). This is technically challenging... Show moreStudents will convert a Quicksilver MXII ultralight airplane to run on E85 fuel (85% ethanol, 15% gasoline). This is technically challenging because the plane uses a 2-stroke Rotax 503 engine, where the oil must be mixed in with the fuel. After the conversion, the plane will be flight-tested. In addition to the technical aspects, the project involves maintaining relationships with sponsors, public relations, and a study of the impact of ethanol on the ultralight aircraft market Sponsorship: NA Project Plan for IPRO 317: Ethanol Ultralight Aircraft for the Fall 2001 semester Show less
