Glider aircraft often fly in groups, making use of patches of rising air in order to stay airborne. When gliders fly in groups, the risk of a collision is therefore increased. Furthermore, this rising air can be marked by dark, imposing clouds, which reduce visibility even further, especially when considering that glider aircraft are thin and often coloured white, reducing contrast against the sky.
hiVis aims to reduce the risk of a collision by improving the visibility of glider aircraft, by allowing glider pilots to retrofit a set of anti-collision lights to their aircraft.
Please note, that due to regulations and University requests, the kit was only installed on a Glider Aircraft in a hangar, and no flights with the kit undertaken.
There are a vast range of Glider Aircraft in use, with different wing, fuselage and cockpit shapes for Lights and Controllers to mount to. Therefore, hiVis is designed with simple, damage-free mounting in mind, using readily available gliding-grade PVC tape to mount to the exterior, and Velcro to mount into the cockpit.
hiVis is compatible with all the Glider Aircraft below, and any in between.
Alongside my major project, I also took part in a CAD/CAM module, focusing on better understanding and undertaking surface modelling. I chose to model a glider, due to the high-complexity and continuity required by aeronautical surfaces. Modelling this aircraft was a challenge, but the skills learned were incredibly helpful whilst surface modelling the Light and Controller forms used in the hiVis kit, in order to achieve better control than via solid modelling.
Another Final Year module involved the creation of a Firefighting Robot as a group. I led the group through a robust Design for Manufacture process, leading the CAD development of the majority of the robot, ensuring successful assembly of the robot before the test day. Much of my CAD development involved sheet metal design, the design of restricted electronics housings, the design of functional wheels and suspension, and more.
Recent Work and Volunteer Experience, full details are on my LinkedIn.
Development Designer – Array | Willson & Brown – 2023-24
Working with a team of Development Designers and Account Managers across the UK and Europe to produce global merchandising and marketing solutions for large brands, such as L’Oréal, Maybelline, Boots, and more.
Using 3D and 2D CAD to communicate designs for manufacture, using a range of processes. Reviewing designs with clients, and travel to Warsaw and Paris for reviews.
Aircraft & Equipment Officer – Loughborough Students’ Union Gliding Club – 2022-25
Managing society’s kit and equipment, ensuring it was well-kept and safe for use. During my time on committee, I sold the clubs ageing glider, and replaced it with the glider to the left, which is much newer and more suited to club members.
