DIMLab Stander Symposium Projects

An aircraft without a vertical stabilizer and using a novel rotating empennage is currently under study at the Air Force Research Lab. The project aims to produce a highly maneuverable tailless fighter aircraft that is inspired by the flight of hunting birds. Flying creatures do not have a vertical stabilizer and exhibit remarkable maneuverability by rotating their tail feathers for lateral stability and pitch control. In the tailless bio-inspired aircraft, lateral control is gained by providing the empennage with an additional degree of freedom. The bio-inspired rotating empennage (BIRE) concept aircraft has the capability to rotate the empennage about the roll axis, in addition to tilting each horizontal stabilizer about the pitch axis. The selected platform for the BIRE project is a single-engine, supersonic, tactical aircraft, based on the F-16 Fighting Falcon. The design of the mechanical drive and structural components is ongoing. This poster will illustrate the concept and current state of development. 

A concept fighter aircraft is being investigated by the Air Force Research Labs that eliminates the vertical tail and uses a bio inspired rotating empennage (BIRE). The motion of the empennage is intended to mimic the agile flight displayed by birds of prey. To assist in communicating the mechanical concept, a desk-top demonstration model was created. Each part in the model is constructed primarily of additively manufactured (AM) components, allowing each component to be custom designed and swiftly manufactured to maximize functionality and accuracy. These components were based on the existing structure of the baseline F-16 and modeled in SolidWorks. The project involved research into different AM techniques and most appropriate process for each component. Two different variants are being constructed: 1) a simple internal structure demonstrating the functions of the BIRE, and 2) a topographically optimized solution. The results of these models allow visualization of the functionality and viability of the BIRE concept. 

A mechanical press shapes parts by driving a ram into metal to deform it into a desired form. Because this process is widely used—from forming pop cans to shaping car fenders—mechanical presses play a crucial role in global manufacturing. The objective of this research is to develop alternative drivetrain designs for mechanical presses that generate specialized ram motions while meeting industry demands for optimal joint forces. By focusing on mechanical presses, this study leverages their advantages over other forming methods, including higher speeds, lower costs, enhanced accuracy, greater precision, and improved energy efficiency. Even small improvements can significantly reduce processing time and energy consumption. The research evaluates five drivetrain designs under realistic industrial conditions to enhance the dwell phase and achieve the required joint forces. Two of these designs are currently prevalent in industry, while the remaining three offer potential advancements. 

Soft robotics is a rapidly evolving field that is advancing the development of surgical devices, prosthetics, and robotic gripper systems. In this work, we explore the design of a soft robot capable of crawling along pipes for inspection and remediation purposes. A common challenge in the rehabilitation of older buildings is the inspection and clearing of existing sewer lines for potential reuse. Frequently, blockages prevent these pipes from being returned to service. When such obstructions are present, the typical solution often involves demolition and reconstruction of floors, walls, and plumbing. A device that could navigate old pipes—capable of turning corners, adjusting to varying diameters, and performing tasks within the pipe—would be extremely valuable. This work presents the modeling, rapid prototyping, assembly, and testing of several key components of the pipe-crawling soft robotic system.