As part of our senior design project, I had the privilege of collaborating with a dynamic team of 12 other students, a mix of mechanical and aerospace engineering majors. Given the ambitious nature of our project, our team size was notably larger than typical groups, with six students from each major. Our objective was straightforward yet challenging: to develop a cost-effective synthetic jet. Synthetic jets represent a frontier in aerospace technology, primarily explored in PhD labs due to their complexity and expense. However, recognizing the potential for widespread applications, especially in aeronautics, we embarked on this venture with a clear goal - to make this advanced technology more accessible and affordable.

The use of synthetic jets can revolutionize active flow control over aircraft wings, significantly enhancing efficiency. This is particularly crucial for entities like NASA, where cost-effective solutions are sought after in aerospace technology. By implementing active flow control, we aimed to optimize aircraft performance, which is not only beneficial for airline companies in terms of operational cost but also pivotal for environmental conservation.

Thanks to a $10,000 grant, our journey into the realm of synthetic jets began. Our approach was rooted in innovation - utilizing 3D printing technology and small piezoelectric disks, we crafted a sophisticated system capable of altering airflow dynamics. The core of our project was two-fold: firstly, to fine-tune the functionality of our synthetic jet and secondly, to conduct comprehensive qualitative tests. These tests were designed to ascertain the optimal placement and quantity of jets needed on the wings of an RC plane to achieve maximum effectiveness.

The project encapsulated a wide array of engineering challenges: from the creation of the synthetic jet itself, designing the electronics to power it, to developing a modular mounting system for a standard RC plane.

Our project's implications extend far beyond the laboratory and the testing grounds. In a world grappling with increasing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, our innovation holds significant promise. The aviation industry, a notable contributor to CO2 emissions, is in dire need of efficient, eco-friendly solutions. Our project aimed to address these challenges head-on.

Our partnership with NASA was not just about technological advancement; it's about shaping a sustainable future. The project aims to reduce emissions, lower operational costs for airlines, and consequently, reduce airfare for consumers. By mitigating boundary layer separation during high-angle-of-attack scenarios on aircraft wings, SynthetoJet stands to revolutionize the efficiency of air travel.

As the global population grows and the demand for air travel increases, the urgency for solutions like SynthetoJet becomes ever more critical. Our project, though in its nascent stages, has the potential to contribute significantly to a cleaner, safer environment for future generations. By pioneering the application of piezoelectric disks in aircraft, we aim to set a new standard in Active Flow Control (AFC) technology, paving the way for more sustainable and efficient air travel.