Dr. Halder installs propeller blades to a simulation machine.

OSU researcher develops optimization framework for electric and hybrid-electric aerial vehicles

Wednesday, April 2, 2025

Media Contact: Desa James | Communications Coordinator | 405-744-2669 | desa.james@okstate.edu

A man works on aerospace equipment within a lab.

Today, there are over 1,100 electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) configurations. Despite their potential for a wide range of applications, it remains unclear which type of these aircraft are optimal for specific missions.

Dr. Atanu Halder, an assistant professor at the School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, is working on a project to advance the design and optimization of eVTOL aircraft. The research, funded by the U.S. Army, is titled "Multi-Disciplinary Optimization Framework for All-electric and Hybrid-Electric Aerial Vehicles."

Halder’s project seeks to develop a comprehensive computational framework that can evaluate different eVTOL models and identify the most suitable for various mission scenarios. The framework will also optimize key aircraft components to enhance mission-specific performance.

The impact of this research extends to both the general public and the military. For civilians, optimized eVTOL aircraft could transform urban transportation by reducing traffic congestion, shortening commute times and providing an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional road-based transportation. Potential applications range from air taxis and emergency medical services to personal commuting, providing accessible transportation that is safer and faster.

“For the military, the research could significantly enhance mission capabilities by identifying and optimizing eVTOL configurations best suited for various operational needs,” Halder said. “The military could use these aircraft for reconnaissance, rapid troop deployment, supply transport and medical evacuations in areas where traditional aircraft or ground vehicles may not be viable.”

The ability to design and optimize eVTOLs for specific missions could provide the military with strategic advantages and operational flexibility in complex environments.

A man in a blue shirt stands infront of a brick building with large glass windows and lush greenery. — Dr. Atanu Halder, Assistant Professor, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

The three-year project is structured with clear milestones. In the first year, the team will develop machine learning-based surrogate models (a type of mathematical model that is computationally fast) to predict the performance of various eVTOL aircraft. The second year will focus on creating a sizing model and weight prediction framework. In the final year, the team will develop a multidisciplinary optimization framework to select the optimal aircraft configuration for specific missions and optimize aircraft components to improve performance.

Halder's project will also benefit students in the College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology. Courses MAE 3724 and MAE 3043 cover fundamental principles that are integral to the broader problem being addressed in the research.

“I have noticed that providing students with a broader perspective on how classroom fundamentals apply to real-world complex challenges enhances their engagement and interest in both coursework and research,” Halder said.

Oklahoma State University has a strong reputation in unmanned aerial systems and electric propulsion technology. CEAT’s collaboration with the Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education and the LaunchPad Center offers unique advantages to both faculty and students and plays a crucial role in advancing aerospace research across Oklahoma.

You can find out more about Halder’s research here.