Design and Fabrication of a Modified Hoverbike

Abstract

Introduction

Overview

Hoverbikes represent a fusion of drone agility and motorcycle design, emerging as a novel solution for personal aerial mobility. With VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) capabilities, they are suited for urban travel, surveillance, emergency response, and military applications. The integration of electric propulsion, advanced materials, and autonomous navigation makes them a viable option for the future of transportation.

1. Technological Advancements

Extensive research in UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) technologies directly contributes to hoverbike development, including:

• LiDAR + IMU navigation systems for accurate indoor/outdoor positioning.

• SLAM algorithms for 3D mapping.

• Advanced composites like CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic) to reduce weight and improve strength.

• 3D-printed composite frames for optimized structural integrity.

2. Types of Hoverbikes

• Multirotor: Drone-like with 4–8 rotors; simple and stable.

• Ducted-Fan: Safer due to enclosed rotors; more aerodynamic.

• Hybrid Propulsion: Combines electric and fuel systems for longer range.

3. Propulsion Methods

A. Electric Propulsion

• Uses BLDC motors and Li-ion or Li-Po batteries.

• Quieter (65 dB), cleaner, and lower maintenance.

• Limits: Shorter flight times (~15–60 minutes), higher initial costs.

B. Combustion Engines

• Higher endurance (up to 90 minutes), quick refueling.

• More noise (75–90 dB), emissions (up to 2.5 kg CO?/hour), and maintenance needs.

C. Hybrid Systems

• Combine benefits of both electric and fuel engines.

• Hydrogen-electric and turbine-electric hybrids are promising for range, emission reduction, and performance.

4. Hoverbike Dynamics

A. Lift Generation

• Generated via 4–8 rotors or ducted fans.

• Critical factors: rotor design, power-to-weight ratio, and energy capacity.

• Use of CFRP blades improves efficiency and hover stability.

B. Thrust Control

• ESCs regulate motor speed in real-time.

• Thrust vectoring and tiltable motors enable maneuvering.

• Systems maintain stability even in wind or during motor failure.

C. Power Supply & Battery Management

• Li-Po/Li-ion batteries are the norm for electric systems.

• BMS ensures safety by monitoring temperature, voltage, and charge levels.

• ESCs control motor speed and optimize power distribution.

5. Safety Features

• Collision avoidance with LiDAR, radar, ultrasonic sensors.

• Triple-redundant flight controllers, emergency parachutes, and geofencing.

• Smart batteries with crash-resistant designs and auto-eject systems.

• Use of CFRP frames for crash protection and structural safety.

6. Sensor Applications

• IMUs: Measure orientation and movement.

• LiDAR: For 3D mapping and obstacle detection in low-GPS environments.

• GPS: Navigation and positioning.

• Ultrasonic & Optical Flow Sensors: Short-range obstacle avoidance and stability.

• Radar: Used in adverse weather conditions.

Conclusion

Hoverbikes integrate aerospace engineering, autonomous systems, and lightweight materials to offer a revolutionary transportation option. Current developments in electric propulsion, sensor fusion, composite materials, and power management are rapidly pushing hoverbikes toward practical, safe, and sustainable deployment across civilian and defense sectors.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Prajeesh Raj V, Abdul Azeez, Akshay P, Arjun Anil, Fayis Khaleel. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.