• Dr. Mark Costello
  • Georgia Tech
  • 1060 Torgersen Hall
  • 10:05 a.m.

Given the availability of highly capable computers, algorithms, sensors and actuators, there exists a terrific opportunity for innovation in the design of air vehicle configurations and components to solve pressing practical problems.  This talk will focus on two such practical problems and potential solutions recently developed by the Costello Research Group at Georgia Tech.  The first problem considered is traversing complex man-made or naturally occurring interior spaces over long periods of time.  A new micro rotorcraft was created consisting of a caged coaxial rotor system with an inherent low mass center that is controlled with an internal translating mass.  The motivation, development, and performance of this vehicle configuration will be detailed.  The second problem involves accurately landing an air dropped payload under a parafoil canopy to within meters of an intended ground impact point.  Several new longitudinal glide slope control mechanisms have been invented including dynamic rigging of the canopy in flight as well as using canopy bleed air to construct a virtual aerodynamic spoiler.  The talk will conclude with a discussion of the key elements of air vehicle design in the university environment.