Few of us would consider any rotor-based drone an objet d’esign. But this tri-rotor model, by L.A.-based industrial designer Alberto Essesi, suggests at least one client is willing to give a designer free rein.
Essesi designed it “for an aerospace client who was looking to explore the boundaries of a tri-rotor drone that would focus on agility and power,” he writes. “The result was an incredibly aerodynamic and organic form that is able to glide through the air while also being able to hover like a helicopter.”
“The aerodynamic, organic shape is designed to optimize airflow, reducing drag and increasing lift. It seamlessly transitions between smooth gliding and helicopter-like hovering. The design utilizes lightweight composite materials and advanced rotor configurations to achieve high maneuverability and rapid response times, suitable for complex flight environments and dynamic operational demands.
“Materials: Carbon-Fiber, plastic, aluminum.”
In his portfolio Essesi refers to it as the Aurora Drone; it’s possible the client in question is Aurora Flight Sciences, a Boeing subsidiary that focuses on unmanned aircraft. However, that’s pure conjecture.