Back to Blog"Our story begins in September 2017 when we purchased the Series 1580 test bench in order to test our thrust requirements and configurations. The primary goal of our project, which has always been the same, is to design an RC Aircraft that is capable of transporting large amounts of cargo. Therefore, accurately predicting our thrust output is critical for the project’s success. However, as we kept refining our design, test procedures and collecting data over the years since, we realized that our need to constantly push the creative envelope would require a bigger space, and more importantly, more advice and consultation. This is where RCbenchmark [now Tyto Robotics] enters.
Figure 1: Concordia students test the RCbenchmark Series 1780 test stand
With the goal in mind to constantly optimize our thrust configurations based on our data collected, we created a MATLAB script that would accurately predict our thrust output. In order to conduct tests and therefore validate our theoretical data, we decided to ask RCbenchmark for the possibility of using their facility for testing. Once they graciously agreed, we visited them in December of 2019. We were 3 teams to visit: the Micro, Regular, and Advanced Class.
Figure 2: Propellers of various sizes to be tested
The Regular Class’ target thrust was to efficiently obtain 11 lbf. We tested the thrust generated by different sizes, manufacturers, and materials of propellers that were considered for our design. In addition, the power output of the motor was monitored since we had competition restrictions regarding power, set at no more than a 1000W. We used the series 1580/1585 test bench for the smaller, Micro Class motor and propeller and the series 1780 test bench for the larger, Regular and Advanced Class motor and propeller.On the series 1780, we tested the 21x8 wood propeller, 19x8 propeller, 20x8 propeller with a 300 Kv brushless motor. After a series of tests, plots made indicated that the Regular Class should go with the 21 x 8 wooden propeller, as it produced a comparable thrust output of 11.57 lbf for the least amount of power drawn, helping us fly longer and more efficiently.
Figure 3: The RCbenchmark Series 1780 fitted with a wooden propeller
The overall experience was very positive, and extremely helpful. The RCbenchmark team helped us a great deal regarding the installation, running software, and tests. We definitely could not have secured as much information and range of testing data alone in our shop, and we are extremely grateful for the help provided by the RCbenchmark’s team. We are excited and hopeful to be able to repeat the same experience this year, taking into account the lessons learned from last year."
Tejas Iyer, Sponsorship Director and Structures - Co-Lead
Dushime Chris Gabriel Irakiza - Systems Co-Lead
Concordia SAE Aero Design Team
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