Skylite

Inspiration The inspiration for SkyLite came from the growing need for innovative urban transportation solutions that reduce congestion and pollution while offering a unique and efficient mode of travel. With advancements in electric propulsion and autonomous control systems, we wanted to create a vehicle that combines the thrill of personal flight with a sustainable approach. The vision was to allow people to commute above traffic and experience the freedom of the sky, similar to a sci-fi dream come to life.

What it does SkyLite is a personal electric VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing) vehicle designed to provide a safe and convenient way for individuals to travel short distances. It lifts off vertically, allowing it to be operated in small spaces without a runway, and then transitions to forward flight to cover distances more efficiently. The vehicle offers autonomous navigation for ease of use, but users can also manually control it for a more hands-on flying experience. SkyLite is equipped with safety features like obstacle detection, redundant motors, and an emergency parachute to ensure a safe journey.

How we built it SkyLite was built by integrating several technologies and leveraging a multidisciplinary approach:

Design and Prototyping:

We used CAD software for the initial design of the vehicle, focusing on aerodynamics and weight distribution. 3D printing and lightweight composite materials were used to construct the vehicle's frame, ensuring strength while minimizing weight. Propulsion System:

We selected high-efficiency electric motors paired with specially designed propellers to create a powerful yet quiet propulsion system. Battery modules were custom-built for optimal power density, providing enough range for short trips. Control System:

An onboard flight computer with a suite of sensors (gyroscope, accelerometer, GPS, LIDAR) was programmed to handle stabilization, obstacle avoidance, and autonomous flight. Manual controls were also integrated for a more interactive flying experience, giving the user flexibility. Challenges we ran into Weight Management: Balancing weight and efficiency was a significant challenge. We had to find lightweight materials that offered structural strength while keeping the overall weight low to ensure a reasonable flight range. Battery Efficiency: Developing a battery system that could handle high power output for VTOL operations without compromising safety or longevity was a key hurdle. Stability in Windy Conditions: Keeping the vehicle stable in varying wind conditions was difficult. We had to develop advanced control algorithms to ensure smooth and stable flight even in less-than-ideal weather. Accomplishments that we're proud of Successful VTOL Prototype: Building a functional prototype that could take off and land vertically was a major milestone. Seeing SkyLite lift off the ground for the first time was incredibly rewarding. Autonomous Flight Implementation: The implementation of autonomous flight capabilities, including path planning and obstacle avoidance, was a significant accomplishment. It allows users to input a destination and enjoy the ride while the vehicle takes care of navigation. Safety Features Integration: We successfully integrated multiple safety features, including redundant propulsion systems and an emergency parachute, ensuring that passenger safety was prioritized. What we learned Collaboration is Key: This project required expertise from different fields—mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, software development, and aerodynamics. We learned the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration and how to merge different skill sets to solve complex problems. The Importance of Iteration: Developing a flying vehicle requires continuous testing and iteration. We learned that every prototype is an opportunity to learn, refine, and improve the design. Power Efficiency Challenges: We gained a deep understanding of power management and efficiency in electric propulsion, which was crucial for achieving the desired range and performance. What's next for SkyLite Range Extension: We plan to improve the battery technology to extend SkyLite's range, making it more suitable for intercity travel. Passenger Capacity Expansion: Our next goal is to increase the capacity to accommodate up to two passengers, allowing more flexibility for users. Certification and Safety Standards: We are working towards meeting aviation certification standards to ensure the highest levels of safety and reliability. Public Trials: We plan to conduct public trials in designated urban areas, allowing people to experience SkyLite and gather feedback for future enhancements. AI-Powered Traffic Integration: To integrate SkyLite into urban air mobility systems, we aim to develop AI-powered traffic management that can handle multiple vehicles flying simultaneously in a shared airspace.