In a pioneering initiative poised to redefine the landscape of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), a team of dedicated engineers and researchers from the Department of Heat Engineering and Heat Engines at Samara University, under the leadership of Associate Professor Mikhail Orlov alongside Alexey Gorshkalev, Viktor Urlapkin, and Sergey Korneev, has unveiled a groundbreaking project— the development of an aviation piston engine with a capacity of 5 horsepower (hp) tailored specifically for UAVs.

Guided by the imperatives of simplicity, efficiency, and scalability, the project embodies a fusion of time-tested engineering principles and cutting-edge innovations. Mikhail Orlov, the driving force behind the endeavor, emphasizes the paramount importance of meeting the unique requirements of a drone engine—simplicity in design, adaptability to mass production, lightweight construction, and cost-effectiveness.

"In the realm of small aircraft engines, simplicity and reliability reign supreme," notes Orlov. "Our objective was to engineer an engine that not only meets these criteria but also offers enhanced maintainability and scalability for future iterations."

At the core of the engine's design philosophy lies a steadfast commitment to leveraging proven solutions while embracing technological advancements. The utilization of a two-stroke piston engine, renowned for its efficiency in the 5 to 50 hp power range, underscores the project's emphasis on performance optimization. Furthermore, the incorporation of a carburetor power system enhances the engine's resilience to external electromagnetic influences—a critical attribute in the realm of UAV operations.

A hallmark feature of the engine lies in its innovative construction, characterized by the fusion of steel sleeves with aluminum cylinder blocks—a strategic balance between weight reduction and durability. This ingenious design not only facilitates ease of manufacturing but also augments the engine's longevity and operational efficiency.

As the project progresses, the team at Samara University is poised to transition from conceptualization to realization, with plans to materialize the engine in metal and commence testing and fine-tuning procedures. However, to realize this vision, the project seeks an industrial partner, underscoring the collaborative ethos driving innovation at Samara University.

The significance of this project extends beyond the realm of UAVs, as it holds the potential to catalyze advancements in diverse domains, including ground-based gasoline equipment. Orlov envisions a future where the engine's adaptability and scalability give rise to a diverse range of applications, from light motorcycles to household gasoline equipment—a testament to the project's versatility and market potential.

Academician Evgeny Shakhmatov, the esteemed scientific director of Samara National Research University, heralds the project as a pivotal step towards positioning the university as a premier hub for UAV development. With a rich legacy of engineering excellence dating back to the development of the first domestic remotely controlled aircraft in the 1980s, Samara University is primed to continue its legacy of innovation and leadership in the field of aerospace engineering.

As the project gains momentum, fueled by the collective expertise and dedication of the team at Samara University, the future holds boundless possibilities for the integration of cutting-edge technologies into the realm of unmanned aerial vehicles. With its unwavering commitment to excellence, Samara University stands poised to shape the future of aerospace engineering and UAV technology, ushering in a new era of innovation and discovery.