Abstract
This work presents a teaching approach for postgraduate aeronautic engineering students, fo-cusing on the analysis and understanding of structural dynamics in complex, real-world applications rather than simplified models. Using a commercial quadrotor as a case study, students investigate critical issues affecting lateral stability—specifically, abnormal vibrations and unintended sliding during autonomous self-leveling. These stability challenges prompt students to explore whether the issues stem from control limitations or structural deficiencies. Students employ the frequency response function (FRF) through impact hammer testing to characterize the natural frequencies of the quadrotor's arms and propellers, identifying potential resonances caused by the propulsion system. The experimental analysis offers students insights into structural solutions and control system reprogramming to counteract resonance-induced vibrations, improve stability, and enhance autonomous functionality. This hands-on approach allows students to directly apply concepts of structural dynamics to complex aerospace systems, preparing them for advanced prob-lem-solving in real-world engineering environments.
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