The document describes a 3-scale system to measure the weight and center of gravity (CG) of small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The system uses strain gauges and a LabView interface to accurately measure loads up to 25 lbs with ±1oz accuracy. It has a simple, evenly distributed design to minimize errors. Next steps include testing prototypes on an Instron machine and developing the LabView program and calibration procedures.

1. Small UAV CG Scale Chris Newton Sal Corrado

2. Enable DBF teams to measure Weight and location of CG accurately Purpose

3. 3-Scale system Measure/Display Weight and Loc. Of CG Controlled via LabView System Overview

4. Accuracy: ±1oz. SI/British unit display Max weight of 25lbs/scale Safety factor-failsafe Size: 4”x4”x2” Instron test for strain bar material/calibration System Requirements

5. $100 per person: $200 Team Total Strain Guages (x6) Bearings (x6) Aluminum Strain Bar Lexan Body Plates Budget

6. Many designs considered Design Concepts Concept #2 Concept #1

8. Minimizes user error from placement of load

10. LabView based user interface Graphical output of CG location (relative to nose wheel/front scale) User inputs X,Y-location of scales relative to nose wheel/front scale Programing

11. Accuracy-Finding ideal Strain Guage Sensitivity to small loads Range of up to 25lb loads Safety Factor Create a failsafe Yielding of strain bar can’t occur Open-Issues

12. Test specimen(s) on Instron Theoretical Analysis-MathCAD Lab View Program Calibration Next Step…