Description:

This research investigates the development of control strategies and mechanical frameworks that enable two quadcopters to collaboratively transport heavy payloads. The project will focus on designing a load-sharing system that ensures balanced weight distribution and stability during flight, minimizing strain on individual vehicles. It will explore the coordination of control systems between the two quadcopters, allowing synchronized movement, efficient energy usage, and safe transportation of payloads in complex environments.

Objectives:

• Develop a mechanical load-sharing system for balanced distribution of heavy payloads between two quadcopters.
• Design and implement coordinated control algorithms to synchronize flight dynamics and ensure stable transportation.
• Analyze the effects of different load configurations and optimize control strategies to minimize strain on individual vehicles.
• Test and evaluate the collaborative transport system in varying flight conditions, including real-world operational scenarios.
• Investigate methods for improving energy efficiency and flight endurance during collaborative payload transport.
• Write-up of MSc dissertation.

Key skills/interests:

Mathematical modelling, mechanical design, control design, path planning.

Expected outputs:

1x MSc (Eng), 1x Journal/Conference paper in a leading publication.

Supervisor:

Arnold Pretorius

Eligibility:

• Full-time student working on campus
• Undergraduate GPA of at least 70%
• Able to begin studies in July/August 2025