group

What campus are you from?

Daytona Beach

Authors' Class Standing

Enrico Caputo, Senior Alexander Chidester, Senior Parth Patel,, Senior Emmolo, Alexander J., Senior Laurie Wagner, Senior

Lead Presenter's Name

Enrico Caputo

Faculty Mentor Name

Alberto W Mello

Abstract

This project focuses on the conversion of the Cessna 208 Caravan into a cost-effective light-attack and support aircraft tailored for use in developing nations. The primary objective is to design, size, and analyze the structural components of the modified wing, pylon system, and mounting brackets using finite element analysis (FEA) based on real aircraft data. The study examines the integration of a dual gun system—two Dillon Aero DAP-6 pods—evaluating the structural response to recoil forces and added weight. Trade studies on materials and mounting configurations were conducted to optimize structural integrity, safety, and economic feasibility. The findings demonstrate that the proposed design maintains acceptable stress levels, ensuring reliability and performance while offering an affordable alternative for close air support missions.

Did this research project receive funding support from the Office of Undergraduate Research.

No

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Budget Warthog

This project focuses on the conversion of the Cessna 208 Caravan into a cost-effective light-attack and support aircraft tailored for use in developing nations. The primary objective is to design, size, and analyze the structural components of the modified wing, pylon system, and mounting brackets using finite element analysis (FEA) based on real aircraft data. The study examines the integration of a dual gun system—two Dillon Aero DAP-6 pods—evaluating the structural response to recoil forces and added weight. Trade studies on materials and mounting configurations were conducted to optimize structural integrity, safety, and economic feasibility. The findings demonstrate that the proposed design maintains acceptable stress levels, ensuring reliability and performance while offering an affordable alternative for close air support missions.

 

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