Share on
Goal:  
26 Supporters
Share on


Description

Aircraft maneuver by deflecting parts of the wing known as control surfaces. However, control surfaces are constrained by their maximum deflection angle. Integrating arrays of small, energy-efficient jets into control surfaces can re-energize the flow of air to extend the maximum deflection angle. This concept is an application of active flow control, a powerful emerging technology that has proven to substantially improve aircraft performance and decrease emissions. However, there is insufficient research on real-world entanglements such as system integration, robustness, and maintenance.

As part of our endeavor, we hope to catalyze research on the obstacles barring the adaptation of synthetic jets by aircraft manufacturers. We have designed a modular and inexpensive wing to provide a platform for iterative development and experimental testing. We intend to conclude our work by integrating our system onto an unmanned aircraft.

This material is based upon a proposal tentatively selected by NASA for a grant award of $12k, subject to successful crowdfunding. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASA.

Donations are applied to...

Any donations will help us raise much-needed funds to purchase supplies for our project. Funds raised through this campaign will contribute to purchases of piezoelectric discs, fasteners, testing equipment, 3D printed parts, and an unmanned aerial vehicle.

Personal Message

We are an interdisciplinary team of seven seniors who have partnered with NASA in their thrust for ultra-efficient transport aircraft. Our solution, STRATO, is an open-source system for integrating miniature electric jets into the wings of aircraft. The effect will improve aircraft efficiency and reduce emissions.

Motivated by Rutgers University’s initiative to reach carbon-neutrality, STRATO will become a multi-year-long project. By donating, you will be giving future students the opportunity to participate in sustainable aviation research.

We hope you’ll join us in our pursuit to foster an environment of sustainable innovation at Rutgers. Any support is greatly appreciated!

Why are donations necessary?

Our project is funded by NASA’s University Student Research Challenge (USRC) grant for its potential to contribute to its strategic thrust in Ultra-Efficient Subsonic Transports. As part of this grant, NASA has tasked us with raising donations through crowdfunding as a contingent for receiving the second half of grant funds.

Thanks To Our Recent Donors!

  • - $ 20.00

  • - $ 50.00

  • - $ 15.00

  • - $ 50.00

  • - $ 50.00

  • - $ 25.00

  • - $ 50.00

  • - $ 50.00

  • - $ 100.00

  • - $ 100.00

  • - $ 15.00

  • - $ 50.00

  • - $ 50.00

  • - $ 25.00

  • - $ 25.00

  • - $ 15.00

  • - $ 10.00

  • - $ 15.00

  • - $ 100.00

  • - $ 100.00