Design
Airfoils, structure, and CAD. Work out the dimensions and how the parts fit together.
SolidWorks · Aerodynamics
Berkeley · SAE Aero Design
Aero SAE
Aero SAE
at Berkeley
Student-built aircraft, from first sketch to flight.
Student-built aircraft
We take a plane from its first CAD model to flight testing. Wing, airframe, electronics: our members build it together.
About us
Aircraft design,
Aircraft design,
outside the classroom.
Each plane starts with a team of Berkeley students.
We design, manufacture, and fly remote-controlled aircraft for SAE Aero Design. Members work on the wing, fuselage, tail, and electrical systems, then bring those parts together for testing.
The competition asks a lot of a small aircraft: keep the airframe light, carry a payload, and fly reliably. We work through those tradeoffs in CAD, in the shop, and at the airfield.
What you’ll work on
SAE Aero Design
Our club’s annual build cycle has led to Aero Design West each spring, competing with universities from around the world. The challenge combines payload optimization with humanitarian applications. Teams are scored on design, presentation, maximum payload, and flight skill.
About the competition
The aircraftInteractive model
Explore the aircraft
Drag to rotate, then switch between assembled and exploded views.
Select a system
to learn about it.
Aero SAE
Design model
Drag to rotate · Choose a view
Design model
Aircraft systems
The wing generates lift. Its airfoil, span, and internal structure determine how much the aircraft can carry and how it handles.
Aerodynamics · StructuresThe fuselage holds the payload and connects the wing, tail, and electronics. It needs to be light, strong, and straightforward to build.
CAD · Fabrication · AssemblyThe tail keeps the aircraft stable. Its control surfaces let the pilot adjust pitch and yaw during flight.
Stability · Flight controlsThe receiver, servos, battery, and power system turn the pilot’s inputs into movement. Wiring and ground tests happen before any flight.
Electronics · Power · TestingIllustrative model. Our competition aircraft are in the photos below.
The team
What you’ll work on
Aircraft take more than one kind of engineer. There’s work in aerodynamics, structures, electronics, and manufacturing.
Ask about joiningLearn the tools by using them.
Model a part in SolidWorks. Cut the pieces on a laser cutter. Assemble a wing, connect the servos, or help test the aircraft. Bring your own skills, too. They help us build better aircraft.
Meet past team membersBuild
Turn drawings into an airframe. Cut parts, assemble the structure, and install the electronics.
Fabrication · AssemblyTest
Check the controls on the ground, take the plane out, and use what happens to improve the design.
Ground checks · Flight testing
From the archive2015–2016
At the airfield
SupportersMaterials, software, and advice
Help us build the next plane
We welcome support with materials, tools, software, and technical advice. Email us if you or your company would like to help.
Talk to us
Organizations recognized on the original Aero SAE website.
Get involvedBerkeley, California
Join Aero SAE
Interested in aircraft? Start here.
Email us about joining, current projects, or sponsorship. Tell us what you’d like to work on, and check the meeting time and room before stopping by.
Email the team calasae@gmail.comWhen does the team meet? +
The original site lists Wednesdays at 7 PM in 120 Bechtel. Please email the team to confirm the current schedule before attending.
What can I work on? +
The club’s work covers wing design, fuselage construction, empennage, electrical systems, and testing. Contact the team about current projects and how to get involved.