Student Projects
Goals and Planning
PROJECT GOAL 2009-2010
The deployment of the parachute-wing is currently
accomplished manually which can take upwards of 7 minutes depending on the conditions. To make the
concept of a powered parachute more feasible for operating in isolated areas, the deployment and
retraction time must be reduced and the user interface minimized. An automated mast extension and
retraction system would reduce the deployment time and minimize the user interface.
This year, the team is re-designing, prototyping,
and ground testing an extending-retracting, single-pole mast system for I-Tec’s “Maverick” powered
parachute vehicle. The system must be easy to use, reliable, and flight worthy. The finished
prototype will be compatible with the market prototype Maverick PPC for testing and evaluation by
I-Tec.
In order to accomplish the project goal the following objectives will be fulfilled:
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Prototype an extension/retraction mechanism to be compatible with a lightweight structural casing, possibly carbon fiber.
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Design an automation-ready mast capable of bearing loads from hoisting and holding the spar and parachute-wing.
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Prototype a mast compatible with the Maverick PPC
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Test and refine the system
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Conduct a system integration at I-Tec
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Document progress through reports and presentations to I-Tec, LeTourneau University, and the community.