Chol-Bum “Mike” Kweon

Stories

Army flies first drone powered by a 3D-printed heavy-fuel rotary engine

Leading the VICTOR propulsion program

The Army flew a mid-sized drone whose engine was printed in metal and burns jet fuel. The engine never turns a propeller. It spins a generator, and electric motors drive the aircraft.

Updated 1 hour ago

Notable Quotes

The use of advanced manufacturing, including 3D metal printing, allowed us to rapidly redesign engine components based on lessons learned through experimentation. It enabled us to design an air-cooled engine that reduces propulsion-system size and eliminates the need for liquid coolant.

from Army flies first drone powered by a 3D-printed heavy-fuel rotary engine · Updated 1 hour ago

For warfighters, the program has transitioned research findings to industry partners for maturation and integration into capabilities that could enable mid-sized drones to operate beyond line of sight.

from Army flies first drone powered by a 3D-printed heavy-fuel rotary engine · Updated 1 hour ago