Is this project an undergraduate, graduate, or faculty project?
Undergraduate
Project Type
group
Campus
Daytona Beach
Authors' Class Standing
Noah Evans, Sophomore Mia Vrchota, Sophomore
Lead Presenter's Name
Noah Evans
Lead Presenter's College
DB College of Engineering
Faculty Mentor Name
Wairimu Mwangi
Abstract
Remora ADS-B: A Modular, Externally Mounted Solution for Homebuilt Aircraft Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B) technology has become a cornerstone of modern air traffic surveillance, providing real-time aircraft position data to pilots and controllers. However, many homebuilt and experimental aircraft lack integrated ADS-B solutions due to cost, complexity, or airframe limitations. The Remora ADS-B project aims to address this gap by developing a lightweight, externally mounted ADS-B receiver that offers reliable traffic awareness without requiring significant avionics modifications or expensive aftermarket solutions. The Remora receiver is designed as a homebuilt-friendly product, utilizing simple circuitry and materials familiar to homebuilders. Its construction relies on widely used fabrication techniques, ensuring aircraft owners can assemble and install the system with minimal specialized tooling. Designed for easy exterior attachment, the system minimizes installation complexity while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency. The receiver is housed in a compact, weather-resistant enclosure, integrating ADS-B antennas, receiver, and power supply options compatible with both aircraft electrical systems and independent battery operation. The design process involved aerodynamic modeling, signal reception analysis, and material selection to ensure durability and minimal drag. Preliminary testing indicates that Remora provides enhanced ADS-B reception compared to panel-mounted receivers in obstructed cockpit environments. Its modular design allows for easy installation and relocation based on airframe configuration. By offering a cost-effective, adaptable, and non-invasive ADS-B solution built with homebuilders in mind, the Remora project expands accessibility to critical situational awareness technology for the experimental aircraft community. Future development will focus on optimizing reception range, reducing power consumption, and refining the mounting system for broader aircraft compatibility.
Did this research project receive funding support (Spark, SURF, Research Abroad, Student Internal Grants, Collaborative, Climbing, or Ignite Grants) from the Office of Undergraduate Research?
No
Remora ADS-B Receiver
Remora ADS-B: A Modular, Externally Mounted Solution for Homebuilt Aircraft Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B) technology has become a cornerstone of modern air traffic surveillance, providing real-time aircraft position data to pilots and controllers. However, many homebuilt and experimental aircraft lack integrated ADS-B solutions due to cost, complexity, or airframe limitations. The Remora ADS-B project aims to address this gap by developing a lightweight, externally mounted ADS-B receiver that offers reliable traffic awareness without requiring significant avionics modifications or expensive aftermarket solutions. The Remora receiver is designed as a homebuilt-friendly product, utilizing simple circuitry and materials familiar to homebuilders. Its construction relies on widely used fabrication techniques, ensuring aircraft owners can assemble and install the system with minimal specialized tooling. Designed for easy exterior attachment, the system minimizes installation complexity while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency. The receiver is housed in a compact, weather-resistant enclosure, integrating ADS-B antennas, receiver, and power supply options compatible with both aircraft electrical systems and independent battery operation. The design process involved aerodynamic modeling, signal reception analysis, and material selection to ensure durability and minimal drag. Preliminary testing indicates that Remora provides enhanced ADS-B reception compared to panel-mounted receivers in obstructed cockpit environments. Its modular design allows for easy installation and relocation based on airframe configuration. By offering a cost-effective, adaptable, and non-invasive ADS-B solution built with homebuilders in mind, the Remora project expands accessibility to critical situational awareness technology for the experimental aircraft community. Future development will focus on optimizing reception range, reducing power consumption, and refining the mounting system for broader aircraft compatibility.