“Drones have undergone a remarkable development over the last ten years. However, their image has been significantly influenced by their use in conflicts, which has often led to a mixed or negative connotation regarding their practical applications,” says Nejc Trost, Lead Designer of the SQA eVTOL, describing the initial situation the team faced at the beginning of the development process. With an approach that focused on aerodynamic efficiency, they were not only able to maximise the lift of the wings and reduce drag, but also improve performance and environmental friendliness. The streamlined, bird-like design of the SQA eVTOL, combined with its quiet and smooth flight characteristics, also helps to convey a sense of calm and safety. The unmanned flight system SQA eVTOL with Blended Wing Body (BWB) combines advanced aerodynamics with high autonomy. In contrast to conventional aircraft, the wings and fuselage of the BWB are integrated into a single, seamlessly merging composite structure. A special design detail is the SQA winglet, the wing tip, which plays a decisive role in stabilising the drone in flight and improves directional stability and general flight characteristics. In addition, the wing section before transitioning to the winglets serves as a hidden tail, which optimises aerodynamic performance while enabling a sleek and streamlined design. The SQA can be operated with minimal human intervention via an intuitive graphical user interface, whereas the system can be equipped with various sensors, making it suitable for extended surveillance missions or remote sensing tasks. “The SQA eVTOL fascinates thanks to its blended-wing body with beautifully flowing, sleek lines and harmonious shapes that simultaneously optimise the aerodynamic properties of the drone. The design has shaped both the quality of function and the qualities of seduction and responsibility. This makes the SQA eVTOL an excellent example of how design can create real added value,” praised the jury.
