2009-2010
Academic Year Competitions
College Division
2009-2010 Challenge in Subsonic Rotorcraft
Amphibious Tiltrotor
for Rescue Operations
Subsonic Rotary Wing Project
Background
The role of rotorcraft in relief operations of man-made
and natural disasters cannot be understated. Whether
fighting fires in California, providing relief after
the 2004 tsunami, or rescuing people after Hurricane
Katrina in 2005, the utility of rotorcraft in saving
lives and property has been demonstrated over and over.
When roads, runways, railways, and harbors are damaged,
rotorcraft are the only lifeline for stranded survivors.
In addition, distressed ships at sea are limited to
rotorcraft or other ships for assistance.
How can rotorcraft be even more effective in rescue
operations? Responding more quickly, rescuing more
people per mission, and landing on water and land should
be characteristics of future rotorcraft designed for
rescue operations. With greater speed and range than
a helicopter and the added capability of water landings,
an amphibious tiltrotor is a promising candidate as
a rescue rotorcraft of the future.
The Subsonic Rotary Wing (SRW) project of the Fundamental
Aeronautics Program aims to radically improve the capabilities
and civil benefits of rotorcraft. To this end, the
SRW project offers the challenge of designing an amphibious
tiltrotor for a wide range of rescue operations, including
fire fighting.
Amphibious Tiltrotor Design Goals
• Cruise speed: 300 kts
• Design range: 800 nm
Capabilities
• Take-off from water or ground; land on water or
ground. Water includes lakes and oceans.
• Carry up to 50 passengers
• Siphon water into an internal tank and expel water
while airborne
Challenge for University Students
Submit a conceptual design for an amphibious tiltrotor
that meets or exceeds the design goals and capabilities
described above. Describe the technical issues associated
with water landings and take-offs. Describe the design
trade-offs considered to accommodate marinization.
Follow the format and content guidelines stated on
the web site, paying close attention to reference citations.
Plagiarism is not tolerated and will automatically
disqualify an entry.
Design an Amphibious
Tiltrotor vehicle for civilian
rescue missions that can:
- Carry up to 50 passengers
- Cruise at 300 kts, Range 800nm
- Land and take off in water or on land
Notice of intent due by January 15, 2010
Entries due by May 3, 2010
+ Dates, Eligibility, and
Resources
+ Submission
Requirements
+
Evaluation Criteria
+
Awards
*NASA Aeronautics Student Contest
Internships Applications
Entries and applications from students wishing to
compete for internships are due no later than April
16, 2010. This is approximately two weeks
earlier than the normal contest due date of May 3. Note that internships
will be awarded only if NASA funding is available.
Paid student internships may be awarded as prizes for
the college/university division contest. Internships
provide real-world research experience working with a
NASA scientist or engineer for a 10-week summer session
or 15-week fall or spring session. Internship awards
will include a stipend and a travel and/or housing allowance
based on location of internship. Internship
awards are subject to available funds. Stipend,
travel and housing will be determined based on GPA, level
of study, number of weeks, and Center placement.
Eligibility:
- College/University Fundamental Aeronautics Contest
contestant
- Full time student
- Sophomore or above
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- US Citizenship required
Questions on internships should be directed to Dr. Elizabeth Ward,
Elizabeth.B.Ward@nasa.gov or 757-864-7638
Visit the 2009
College awards page to see the awardees
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