In 2022, I was an integral part of the Regular Class RC Aircraft project for the SAE India Aero Design Challenge. I contributed to the fabrication of the aircraft's wing and prepared a detailed technical presentation, which was pivotal in showcasing our design and performance. My efforts, along with those of my team, resulted in securing All India Rank (AIR) #1 in the competition. This project required precise aerodynamic optimization, resulting in an aircraft with a payload fraction of 0.72 and a capacity of 10.8 kg, with a wingspan of 2.4 meters and a chord length of 0.498 meters. This experience not only honed my technical skills but also strengthened my teamwork and problem-solving abilities.

Aerothon 2022 marked my first drone-oriented competition, where I was deeply involved in the overall drone design, focusing primarily on the payload system and fabrication. This project provided a hands-on opportunity to integrate cutting-edge technologies such as additive manufacturing, laser cutting, CNC routing, and 4-axis milling to optimize the drone’s structure and functionality. I also worked extensively on the placement of electronic components and gained valuable insights into the working of UAVs. My role extended to performing static structural analysis (SSA) of the drone’s parts and contributing to the technical reports and presentations, ensuring a comprehensive approach to both engineering and documentation. This experience laid the foundation for my passion for UAV design and advanced manufacturing.

In 2023, I played a key role in the Autonomous Drone Design Challenge (ADDC), where I contributed to the overall UAV design and prototype fabrication. Leveraging generative design principles and structural optimization techniques, I ensured that the drone was efficient and capable of autonomous payload delivery. Additionally, I prepared the technical presentation, effectively communicating the design’s strengths. My efforts helped our team achieve AIR #2 in this highly competitive event. This project deepened my expertise in UAV design and highlighted my ability to blend innovation with functionality. 

In 2023, I delved into the design of an advanced UAV, focusing on creating a robust system capable of performing under diverse real-world conditions. My work emphasized conducting multiple conditional analyses and simulations, utilizing tools like CFD for aerodynamic optimization, Static Structural Analysis (SSA) for ensuring structural integrity, and MATLAB for stabilization and control analysis. This comprehensive approach allowed me to design a drone that was not only efficient and reliable but also tailored to meet practical operational demands. This project further enhanced my expertise in combining analytical tools with innovative design principles.

By 2024, I transitioned into a leadership role as the Team Lead for the Autonomous Drone Design Challenge (ADDC). In this capacity, I oversaw the enhancement of the UAV design and led the team through the prototype fabrication and testing phases. Our hard work was rewarded with another AIR #2 ranking. Project designed for medical payload delivery. My primary responsibility was the design of lateral stabilization for the aircraft incorporating First-Person View (FPV) technology and video telemetry to ensure operational efficiency. This project allowed me to apply my technical skills to a real-world application, addressing critical needs in healthcare.

I am proud to share that our team, aeroKLE SAE Aero-Design Team, secured AIR #3 at Aerothon 2024, organized by SAEINDIA, with our innovative drone, TRAKSHYA. Contributing to the design of TRAKSHYA was a fulfilling experience as we focused on achieving aerodynamic efficiency, structural integrity, weight optimization, and spatial balance. Adopting a quad X configuration, we ensured superior stability, maneuverability, and payload capacity. Key highlights included using 3D-printed PLA for components like the avionics bay and payload system, a birch plywood mid-plate for lightweight durability, and a carbon fiber bottom plate for added strength. We also addressed ESC overheating with NACA ducts for efficient airflow and optimized the avionics bay with a snap-fit removable cap to minimize drag and enhance accessibility