Ugly Bug Drone

grabcad

In the Generate Quadcopter Challenge (https://grabcad.com/challenges/the-generate-quadcopter-chapter), I optimized the frame's shape based on various forces. Assuming electronics at 42g, motors at 120g, wires at 25g, battery at 47g, and a payload of 250g, I divided these weights to determine the forces acting on the frame. For instance, electronics weight was halved for main electronics and motor speed controllers, while wires' weight was equally distributed among electronics and motors. To simulate the forces, I considered main electronics, electronic speed controllers, motors, battery, payload, and motor thrust. Load cases LC1-LC3 were established to represent flying scenarios with fixed areas for thrust, surfaces for payload mounting, and a standing scenario without a payload or thrust. To reflect reality better, I used two load cases for flying, assuming extra space for payload protection mounting but not simulating it due to additional load cases constraints. A force of 0.01N was added on this extra surface post-optimization. The optimized frame balances weight and printability, allowing potential weight reduction but ensuring assembly without breaking other components. To enhance the quadcopter's appearance, I added a cover mounted with zip ties and used adhesive-backed Velcro for electronics, battery, and payload. The provided parasolid file (QCG-ASM-000-001.x_t) contains a surface model of the frame used for renderings, while the actual optimized shape is in the STL file. Additionally, I uploaded another file without the surface model due to its large size. Overall, it was a great experience with Frustum's shape optimization software, and I appreciate the opportunity to participate in the Generate Quadcopter Challenge.