Carcopter (2014-2015)

The intent of this project was to create a model of a vehicle capable of both flying and driving. In its driving state, it would retract the arms on which the propellers were attached to minimize its length and width. As the concept was designed to be an emergency vehicle, similar to an ambulance, the flight mode would allow quick transport over distances, while the driving mode would all the vehicle to get in close to the accident scene, providing easy access for the injured to be loaded on. By shrinking the dimensions of the vehicle while in its driving mode, the Carcopter would be able to navigate through smaller streets and get as close as possible to the target.

I worked with my friend Akira Higaki on the Carcopter. He headed the electrical and wiring portion of the project while I handled the mechanical aspects of the design. Overall, after numerous design revisions and tests, the Carcopter was a success. The final design was able to drive in all directions, a spin in place, extend the motor arms, and fly.