RAPTOR, developed by MechFly, is a cutting-edge project aimed at excelling in the ASME IAM3D Unmanned Aerial Racing Cargo Vehicle (U.A.R.C.V.) competition. This competition challenges university students to harness additive manufacturing and iterative design techniques to craft an unmanned aerial racing vehicle capable of efficiently handling cargo. The mission? Pick up and deliver payloads in a thrilling racing environment. With up to five drones racing simultaneously, RAPTOR aims to showcase agility, speed, and precision as it navigates the course, demonstrating its capability to swiftly pick up, travel with, and drop off multiple payloads from designated areas. Through meticulous design processes and detailed documentation, MechFly endeavors to stand out in both performance and innovation in this exhilarating competition.
Sarah Brzezinski, a senior from Shorewood, Illinois, is a driven mechanical engineering major passionate about turbine engines. Post-graduation, Sarah will continue to delve into advanced research opportunities at Saint Louis University through an accelerated master's program focused on turbine efficiency. Beyond academics, Sarah serves as Chair of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Student Section.
Lesly Aguilar is a San Jose, California native studying mechanical engineering at Saint Louis University with a minor in engineering mathematics. In her spare time, Lesly likes to read fantasy novels and play Dungeons and Dragons. Her post-graduation plans are to continue her education by pursuing a masters degree through the accelerated BS-MS program in aerospace engineering under Dr. Michael Swartwout.
Michael Dompke, from Park Ridge, Illinois, is a senior in mechanical engineering with a minor in computer science. Outside the classroom, Michael serves as Program Manager for the Demonstration of Artificial Reasoning Learning and Analysis (DARLA) Mission with the Space Systems Research Lab. Following graduation, Michael will continue at Saint Louis University to complete an accelerated master's in engineering with a focus in spacecraft engineering.
Justin Ndacaisaba, a senior from St. Louis, Missouri, is currently pursuing his undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering at St. Louis University. With a passion for creativity and problem-solving, he aspires to secure an engineering position post-graduation that allows him to utilize his skills effectively. Justin's interests lie in the realms of automation and design engineering, where he hopes to make significant contributions to innovative projects and technologies.
Will is a mechanical engineering major from St. Louis. He is passionate about fighter jets and plans to work in the aerospace industry after graduation. He is also passionate about music and enjoys playing guitar in his past time.
Andrew Stack is a senior from Glenview, Illinois studying mechanical engineering. His post graduation plans are working in the aerospace industry and becoming a high school teacher. His interests include 3D printing, innovative designs, and cooking.