DDC MICRO

In the Micro Class category of the SAE Drone Development Challenge (DDC), students design aircraft that can carry heavy payloads and achieve substantial payload fractions while strictly adhering to the requirements of fitting the entire aircraft within a 3-cubic-foot box and having a maximum empty weight of 1.5 kg. In order to achieve a higher payload fraction while maintaining stability and performance, teams must optimise their structural design, propulsion systems, and aerodynamics.

To demonstrate their technological advancements and teamwork, participants not only build the UAV but also create comprehensive design studies and presentations. These exercises foster problem-solving, communication, and project management abilities. By encouraging creativity and teamwork, the competition equips students for real-world uses of UAV technology, such as cargo delivery and other critical mission operations.