Catapult Launch Capable Glider

Project Title

Project Area of Specialization

Mechanical Engineering

Project Summary

We are going to design and manufacture a lightweight operational glider, capable to launch with the help of catapult to takeoff even in a small space. Similarly, we launching our glider with catapult to eliminate the need to be at a good height or to connect a plane with a glider to fly it. To achieve this goal we will design a glider in a small scale with a rigid attachment connected to its body and defining a hook which would be connected to the launcher and is released upon the pulling of a trigger. This project is divided in 2 phases. In phase 1, we will finalize the design and make a 3D model by the end of 7th semester. Similarly, phase 2 is based on the material procurement and the manufacturing of glider.

Project Objectives

A glider is a fixed-wing aircraft that is supported in flight by the dynamic reaction of the air against its lifting surfaces. Most gliders do not have an engine, although motor-gliders have small engines for extending their flight when necessary by sustaining the altitude.

This invention relates to a small scale powered glider which is preferably molded of such a structure that could be easily catapult launched. The invention is also concerned with a catapult launching device for such a glider which is extremely simple in structure and, capable of being produced at low cost and is practically foolproof in operation. This glider would be light weight and less expensive as compared to the regular RC plane. Moreover it produces least noise and required a very small area for its takeoff. Thus by eliminate the need of runway. Its aerodynamic design make it more stable to fly with the least consumption of power.

Project Implementation Method

A lot of gliders we find are powered to increase their time of flight and altitude. So we also install an electric motor to provide sufficient power.
These gliders have a special assembly at the bottom of their fuselage to mount that glider over catapult. So in our design that attachment would be rigid and firmly attached to the boy to sustain the instant impact of force applied by catapult.
We will control flight surfaces with actuators to change its directions of flight via remote.

Benefits of the Project

Unlike ordinary gliders it will not require a wide area and long distance to takeoff.
A proper runway is not required for their flight.
Its takeoff process is easy and simple.
This glider wouldn’t need to throw from a good height to fly.
A good amount of fuel consumes by ordinary gliders fly after attached with piston engine aircrafts. But our glider consume no fuel

So we are giving one solution of all these problems by making a catapult launch capable glider.