# Engineering Mechanics

Proceedings Vol. 32 (2026)

ENGINEERING MECHANICS 2026

Copyright © 2026 Institute of Thermomechanics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague

 

Celik H.F., Vatandas O.E.
pages 25 - 28, full text

In this study, the design, production and some tests of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) equipped with an electric ducted fan (EDF) propulsion system and vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capability have been carried out. A tilt-based thrust vectoring system was employed to enable transitions between different flight regimes. During the design process, initial requirements were defined, and a conceptual design was created based on these parameters. The formulas used in the design calculations were transferred to Microsoft Excel, and various technical data-driven tables and graphs were generated to determine the most suitable design values. The UAV's overall dimensions and basic performance parameters were established. A preliminary study for production was completed, and the CAD drawings were adapted to be manufacturing-ready. As part of the production phase, mold designs were prepared for the outer body components of the aircraft, and these parts were successfully manufactured using carbon fiber reinforced composite material. This project was awarded first place in the inaugural year of the “Hangar Campus Innovation Program” organized by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ).

Ownership of copyright in original research articles remains with the Authors, and provided that, when reproducing parts of the contribution, the Authors acknowledge and/or reference the Proceedings, the Authors do not need to seek permission for re-use of their material.

All papers were reviewed by members of the scientific committee.