Hello readers,

The project has been following the set time line adequately and will begin manufacturing in the coming week. The biggest challenge for the project is safety of our members when operating machining equipment and handling carbon fiber. Our Safety Officer has compiled a list of safety supplies to be purchased for our members to use in our lab space while also researching safety guild lines for handling carbon fiber. The carbon fiber will be used for the fuselage after much debate about what material would suit best. It came down to cost, durability and weight with the only concern being the overall safety of handling the material.
Our model plane, discussed in the last post, will be tested as soon as a flight space is found and pilot training will begin. Additionally, thrust stand tests using the plane’s motor will be conducted to gather data regarding power required and thrust. Preliminary circuit diagrams are being finalized and tested as well. As purchased parts arrive, testing and manufacture can finally begin.
Lastly, team communication has been a challenge for us. We understand the responsibility it takes to inform the necessary persons of various information to ensure a smooth and successful project. Sticking to a strict time line has been an equally great challenge because of other equally important priorities of our members. Moving forward, communication between teams will improve and prove to be an effect learning experience for the entire project.

As always, thanks for reading.

Blake Theilacker
btheilac@uci.edu