A study by composites manufacturer Quickstep Technologies and RMIT University has concluded that braiding technology offers an opportunity to enhance the production rate of composite structures for eVTOL UAS applications.
A collaboration between Quickstep, RMIT and the Defence Science Institute studied the use of advanced composite manufacturing methodology — braiding — to produce the primary structure of an electric Vertical Take-off and Landing (eVTOL) Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) capable of withstanding peak loads exceeding 90 kg.
Authors of a just published paper Limprapuwiwattanaa, Ashim Pantab, Joe Rokebrand and Raj Ladanthe found the technique offered a higher level of automation and production rates.
According to the authors: “Braiding technology allows for the rapid and precise wrapping of tows and yarns around complex geometries, offering significant speed advantages over manual layup processes.
“The controlled parameters of braiding ensure a consistent architecture throughout the structure, with the flexibility to introduce tailored variations by adjusting process settings.
“The findings validate the potential of replacing manual layup with braiding, achieving comparable strength and stiffness while enhancing production efficiency.”
Braiding has long been used in the textile industry to manufacture products such as bullwhips and ropes.
In the study Quickstep and RMIT University successfully produced a primary aerostructure, demonstrating the feasibility of applying braiding technology and the potential to extend its use in manufacturing other eVTOL UAS structures.
“However, it requires comprehensive design and fabrication of tools and equipment, which can be time-consuming and costly.
“Once fully developed, the manufacturing process can significantly benefit from braiding in high-production environments.
“That said, not all parts are suitable for braiding due to the associated costs and setup requirements.”
Picture: Braided pod on the Herzog composite braiding machine at RMIT University