Welcome to the Institute of Flight Systems. Our work focuses on the interaction between aircraft configuration, pilots and modern flight system technology. From flight dynamics to unmanned aerial vehicles, from simulation to real flight tests - we analyse, test and develop innovations that will shape the flying of the future.
What to expect
The interdisciplinary research project "morphAIR" aims to enhance flight performance through shape-changing wings and determine their contribution to improving the efficiency of fixed-wing aircraft. While morphing technologies have been explored extensively in ground and wind tunnel tests, key measurements such as fuel consumption and changes in flight characteristics, which can only be assessed through flight tests, are missing. Furthermore, the integration of AI-based control with morphing technologies remains relatively unexplored but holds significant potential for advancements in flight control and performance.
To achieve these scientific objectives while minimizing risk, scaled flight tests with an unmanned aerial system (UAS) are planned. The test vehicle, designated "Proteus", features a wingspan of 2.95 m, a maximum take-off weight of approximately 70 kg, and a maximum flight speed of around 300 km/h.
Your tasks
* Support during the mechanical and electrical construction and assembly of a second demonstrator vehicle
* Integration of thrust measurement sensors in the autopilot system
* Integration of angle-of-attack/-sideslip sensors in the autopilot system
* Enhancement of the aerodynamics model for the morphing wing
* Modeling of RC size turbojet
* Improvement of the visualization framework
* Comparison of different software tools for the integration of functional mockup units (FMU) derived from the current simulation framework
Your profile
* Current enrollment in a Bachelor’s or Master’s program in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field
* Strong interest in flight dynamics, control systems, and artificial intelligence
* Experience with simulation tools and software for flight dynamics
* Good programming skills, particularly in Python or C++
* Experience with flight control systems, particularly Ardupilot and PX4
* Interest in remote controlled aircraft
We offer
DLR stands for diversity, appreciation and equality for all people. We promote independent work and the individual development of our employees both personally and professionally. To this end, we offer numerous training and development opportunities. Equal opportunities are of particular importance to us, which is why we want to increase the proportion of women in science and management in particular. Applicants with severe disabilities will be given preference if they are qualified.
We look forward to getting to know you!
If you have any questions about this position (Vacancy-ID 2690) please contact:
Lennart Kracke
Tel.: +49 531 295 1022