Additive manufacturing (AM) enables the rapid production of structural airframes, wing sections, and payload bays for UAVs. These lightweight parts can be fabricated on demand for applications such as surveying, mapping, environmental monitoring, and advanced research.
Challenge
Traditional UAV production relies on moulding or composite layup processes. These are labour-intensive, costly for short runs, and slow to iterate. Aerospace and research projects require faster turnaround times and the ability to test and refine designs without heavy upfront tooling costs.
Solution
LFAM allows UAV components to be:
Lightweight and geometry-optimised for specific missions or research goals
Produced without tooling, enabling small-batch runs and design iteration
Digitally prepared (sliced and simulated) for streamlined, local printing
This workflow makes it possible to scale ideas quickly and move from concept to functional prototype in days rather than months.
Key Metrics
Airframe dimensions: 1.2m (L) × 1.0m (W) × 0.3m (H)
Airframe total weight: 15kg
Print time: ~8 hours
Impact
By leveraging LFAM, UAV manufacturers and researchers can dramatically shorten development cycles, lower costs, and achieve greater design flexibility. The ability to produce airframes locally reduces supply chain constraints and supports innovation across aerospace and related industries.
