Material Optimization for Structural Strength of Hexacopter Landing Skid Using Finite Element Method

Abstract

Hexacopter is a type of UAV that has six propellers with a load of 15 kg or about 147 N in this study. Then, to support the landing of the hexacopter and to support it while being on the ground, landing skid is needed. The landing skid is designed using 3D printing from selected materials to find out which material is best used for the landing skid, including PLA, PETG, and ABS. 3D-printing supports the production of lightweight and high-strength parts. This research method uses finite element to compare several materials and uses SolidWorks to simulate static load and drop test by landing skid. The results show that PETG material is the best material with the highest safety factor in the static load and has the lowest strain value in the drop test.