Bachelor or Master Thesis on UAV Design Using OpenVSP

Bachelor or Master Thesis on UAV Design Using OpenVSP

Position: Bachelor or Master Thesis Student – UAV Design and Aerodynamic Analysis

Location: NIKO Technologies Ltd., Gabrovo

Type: Internship / Thesis Project

About this Position:

Are you passionate about Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and eager to contribute to cutting-edge research in aerospace design? We are looking for a highly motivated and technically skilled student to work on a Bachelor or Master thesis project focused on developing and analyzing a parametric model of a UAV using OpenVSP (Open Vehicle Sketch Pad).

This project will give you hands-on experience in UAV conceptual design, aerodynamic analysis, and optimization. You will work closely with our R&D team to develop a fully parametric model of a UAV, perform aerodynamic simulations, and optimize the design for real-world applications.

Project Overview:

The primary goal of this thesis is to set up, refine, and analyze a UAV model using OpenVSP. The project will involve:

  • Creating a parametric UAV model using OpenVSP, focusing on wings, fuselage, propulsion, and control surfaces.
  • Performing aerodynamic analysis using built-in tools like VSPAero to evaluate key parameters such as lift-to-drag ratio, stability, and control effectiveness.
  • Optimizing the UAV design based on mission profiles (e.g., endurance, range, or payload capacity).
  • Validating results by comparing them with existing UAV data or external simulation tools such as CFD.

Link to detailed project overview

Key Responsibilities:
  • Work on a fully parametric design of a UAV using OpenVSP.
  • Conduct aerodynamic analysis and optimization of the model.
  • Collaborate with the engineering team to integrate the UAV model into broader project goals.
  • Prepare a detailed report and presentation on the project findings.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (ongoing) in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
  • Knowledge of aircraft design principles, especially related to UAVs.
  • Familiarity with OpenVSP or similar parametric design software is a plus, but training can be provided.
  • Experience or knowledge in aerodynamics and tools like VSPAero or CFD software (e.g., OpenFOAM, XFLR5 is beneficial.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

What We Offer:

  • Opportunity to work on a real-world UAV design project.
  • Hands-on experience with OpenVSP and aerodynamic analysis tools.
  • Mentorship from experienced aerospace engineers and researchers.
  • Flexible working hours and the possibility of remote work.
  • Potential career opportunities within our company after the thesis.

How to Apply:

If you’re interested in taking your UAV design skills to the next level, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your CV, a short cover letter, and a copy of your academic transcript to info@nikotechnologies.com with the subject line "Thesis Application – UAV Design".