UAV Design and Construction

Various HooperFly Rotorcraft

UAV's come in many shapes, sizes and configurations. A variety of materials and construction techniques are used in their designs. The main driver for choosing a type of aircraft and materials is based on the aircrafts usage. For example, fixed-wing aircraft are better suited for long distance missions whereas, rotorcraft excel in more tactical/space restricted environments.

**Aircraft Types** Most UAVs fit into one of the following aircraft types: * Fixed-wing Aircraft * VTOL Aircraft - Vertical Takeoff and Land * Rotorcraft

**Materials** Often a combination of materials are used in the construction of a UAV. Some commonly used materials include: * Wood * Aluminium * Fiberglass * Plastic/FOAM/PEX * Carbon Fiber