As Propulsion Lead for the USC AeroDesign Team, I oversaw the design, testing, and optimization of electric propulsion systems for multiple aircraft in the AIAA Design/Build/Fly competition. I configured and analyzed motors, speed controllers, batteries, and propellers to meet target performance metrics such as thrust, cruise speed, and efficiency. Using MATLAB in conjunction with QPROP and XFOIL, I developed a custom optimization tool to evaluate over 100 propulsion components and identify the most efficient configurations. In addition to technical contributions, I led lab hours and manufacturing sessions to train over 30 team members on propulsion fundamentals, safety practices, and system validation through data-driven testing.
QProp estimated performance of an 16”x10”E APC propeller compared to UIUC Propeller Database test data and APC simulation data.
Using QPropTrader, I was able to simulate propulsion data by simulating propeller performance at various advance ratios. The MATLAB script was able to utilize QProp to select an optimized propulsion package. My work was presented at our design reviews with industry advisors and alumni, and submitted in our report for the 2025 AIAA Design/Build/Fly competition. With our APC and Scorpion Motors sponsorships I was able to statically test a selected array of propulsion packages on our thrust stand. We ended up having a very successful year, with our final aircraft KingfiSCh placing #4 in the report and #11 at competition out of 100+ teams!
2025DBF_UniversityofSouthernCalifornia_DESIGN_REPORT_submitted.pdf