NEWS

• Aviation Institute at AIAA SCITECH 2024 Forum
  

  Faculty members from the Aviation Institute actively participated in the renowned AIAA Science and Technology Forum and Exposition (AIAA SciTech), held this year in Orlando, Florida, USA. Recognized as one of the leading aerospace conferences globally, the event serves as a hub for exchanging ideas and presenting cutting-edge developments in the field.
  During the forum, the faculty and their graduate students introduced a variety of research projects and theses, emphasizing the institute’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of aerospace science and technology. The following list highlights the publications presented at the event:
  

  • A Alrai, Y Yorulmaz, O Zirhli, FÇ Cebeci, D Köken, H Cebeci, “Tailorable Multifunctional Sensors for Structural Health Monitoring of Composite Structures”

  • A Selim, AT Cetin, I Ozkol, E Koyuncu, “Stochastic Optimal Control under Non-Gaussian Uncertainties via Entropy Minimization and Dynamical Indicators”
    

  • A Selim, AT Cetin, I Ozkol, E Koyuncu, “Stochastic Trajectory and Robust Controller Optimization via Contractive Optimal Control”
    

  • AT Cetin, E Koyuncu, “Visual Pursuit Guidance Strategy with Shrinking Horizon Replanning for Drones”
    

  • E Kucukkalfa, O Ok, K Yildiz, “Energy Absorption Characteristics of Elastomeric Nanoparticle Reinforced Polymeric Foam-Filled Auxetic Structures Under Cyclic Compression”
    

  • E Kucukkalfa, O Ok, K Yildiz, “Viscoelastic Properties of Carbon Nanotube Reinforced Polyurethane Foams through Dynamic Mechanical Analysis”
    

  • EE Yiğit, R Yeniçeri, “FPGA Based Hardware Accelerator for Euler Equations with Finite Volume Method”
    

  • M Karabal, M Dincer, D Arslan, R Yüksel, ZN Akyazici, A Yildiz, H Cebeci, “Direct 3D Printing of Strain Sensors onto 3D Woven Orthogonal Composite Structures: Evaluating Two Distinct Approaches for Sensor Performance”
    

  • N Calaner, EB Kivandik, E Kucukkalfa, K Yildiz, “Progressive Reinforcing of Re-entrant Auxetic Structures by Direct Polyurethane Foaming within Unit Cells”
    

  • YE Bozkurt, C Kincal, R Yüksel, A Yildiz, N Solak, H Cebeci, “3D Printable BN/PEEK/PEI Polymer Blend Composites for Thermal Management Applications”
    

  • ZN Akyazici, IH Sahin, M Dincer, YC Sudutemiz, H Cebeci, “Establishing Architectural Effects of Variable Binder on 3D Orthogonal Woven Composites: RVE Model and Experiment Validation”
    

• Aviation Institute Participates in Prestigious International Conferences in 2024
  

  In 2024, the ITU Aviation Institute garnered significant attention with its academic contributions at international conferences. The institute showcased its pioneering research in aviation and space technologies, composite materials, and missile guidance systems at prestigious conferences worldwide.
  
  From April 23–25, 2024, researchers from the institute presented their study, “A Review of Multidimensional Assignment in Multi-Sensor Multi-Target Tracking,” at the 24th Integrated Communications, Navigation, and Surveillance Conference (ICNS) held in Herndon, Virginia, USA. The study provided a comprehensive review of multidimensional assignment methods for multi-sensor, multi-target tracking applications.
  
  Between June 11–13, 2024, the institute presented two innovative studies at the EuroGNC 2024 Conference in Bristol, UK. The first study, “Polynomial Range Impact Time Control,” utilized Bézier curves for precise control of impact time in missile guidance. The second, “Enhanced Impact Vector Guidance,” introduced a method for optimizing the engagement of moving targets. Both presentations attracted significant interest from conference attendees.
  
  From October 21–23, 2024, at the American Society for Composites 39th Technical Conference in San Diego, USA, the institute presented “Fatigue Behavior of Additively Manufactured BN/PEEK/PEI Blended Composites.” The study explored the fatigue behavior of composite materials manufactured through additive techniques, shedding light on novel applications in this field.
  
  Lastly, from November 19–21, 2024, at the E-Textiles 2024 Conference in Berlin, Germany, the institute showcased its work on “Sensory Pattern Optimization for Wearable Respiration Systems with CNT-based Conductive Inks.” This study focused on optimizing sensory patterns in wearable respiratory systems using carbon nanotube (CNT)-based conductive inks, a technology with immense potential in healthcare applications.
  Participation in these conferences marked a significant milestone for the ITU Aviation Institute, enhancing its international academic collaborations and reinforcing its commitment to innovative research. Below are the bibliographic details of the presented studies:
  

  • Cengiz, S. K., Abu-Khalaf, M., & Yeniçeri, R. (2024, April). A Review of Multidimensional Assignment in Multi-Sensor Multi-Target Tracking. In 2024 Integrated Communications, Navigation and Surveillance Conference (ICNS) (pp. 1-15). IEEE.
    

  • Çatak, A., Demir, E., Tekin, R., Koyuncu, E., & Özkol, İ. Polynomial Range Impact Time Control: A Novel Approach Using Bézier Curves.
    

  • Çatak, A., Demir, E., Koyuncu, E. & Özkol, İ., (2024, June). Enhanced impact vector guidance: Addition of impact time using Bézier curves and virtual targets. Proceedings of the 2024 CEAS EuroGNC Conference.
    

  • Arslan-Catak, D., Koseoglu, N., Yildiz, K., Guner, H., Yildirim-Varisoglu, Y., Ozden-Yenigün, E., & Cebeci, H. (2024). Sensory pattern optimization for wearable respiration systems with CNT-based conductive inks. In Proceedings of the 6th International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles.
    

• The Royal Academy of Engineering and TÜBİTAK-Supported “Remote Respiration Monitoring Through Wearable Textile-Based Sensors” Project Successfully Completed
  

  The project titled “Remote Respiration Monitoring Through Wearable Textile-Based Sensors,” co-funded by the Royal Academy of Engineering and the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TÜBİTAK; Project no: 220N307), has been successfully completed. Conducted at the ITU Aerospace Research Center, this project focused on developing advanced textile-based sensor technologies aimed at providing innovative solutions in the healthcare sector.
  Led by Prof. Hülya Cebeci, with significant contributions from Dr. Kaan Yıldız and Dr. Elif Özden Yenigün, the project team designed and tested wearable textile-based sensors capable of addressing precise measurement needs, such as remote respiration monitoring.
  The developed system enhances user comfort through its flexible structure and provides an effective solution for wearable technologies and medical monitoring devices. The successful completion of this project marks a significant breakthrough in the field of wearable sensors, offering reliable and innovative alternatives, particularly for health technology applications.
  

• Advanced Tensegrity Structures for Space Applications
  

  Researchers at Istanbul Technical University have carried out an innovative project aimed at solving the low vibration performance issues of tensegrity structures with support from the TÜBİTAK 3501 program. Led by Dr. Kaan Yıldız and supervised by Prof. Dr. Hülya Cebeci, the study focused on increasing the damping capacity of these structures by integrating viscoelastic polyurethane foams.
  The project optimized the mechanical properties of polyurethane foams with carbon nanotube reinforcement and integrated the foams into tensegrity structures, producing hybrid rod prototypes. The mechanical properties of the developed structures were evaluated through cyclic compression tests, and a novel finite element analysis method incorporating viscoelastic and geometrically nonlinear behavior was developed. These analyses provided adaptable results across various geometries and materials, contributing significantly to the literature.
  The hybrid tensegrity structures developed in this project are particularly notable for their energy absorption capabilities, enabling safe landings of space exploration vehicles on celestial bodies. Additionally, tests and analyses demonstrated that these structures hold great potential in meeting the high strength and lightweight design requirements. This research not only promises innovations for the space sector but also offers applications in robotics and mechanical engineering.
  

• ITU BAP Project Completed: Modeling Creep Behavior in PEI Composites
  

  The ITU BAP project titled "Mathematical Modeling of Creep Behavior of Carbon Black Reinforced PEI Composites" has been successfully completed, with its results published in the journal Composite Structures.
  Led by Dr. Alptekin Yıldız, the research project was conducted under the title "Mathematical Modeling of Creep Behavior of Carbon Black Reinforced PEI Composites Fabricated by Additive Manufacturing" and was supported by ITU BAP Coordination Unit under the Research Startup Support (ABP) program.
  The project investigated the creep behavior of carbon black-reinforced PEI composites manufactured via additive manufacturing. Detailed material characterization and mathematical modeling studies revealed significant findings regarding the effects of the production method on material behavior and performance.
  Initial results of the project were presented at the 10th International Conference on Recent Advances in Air and Space Technologies (RAST 2023) under the title "Creep Modeling of 3D Printed Carbon Black Reinforced Polyetherimide Composites." Additionally, the major findings of the project were published in Composite Structures journal under the article titled "Creep resistance enhancement and modeling of 3D printed Polyetherimide/carbon black composites." These studies provide valuable contributions to the use of high-performance composite materials in engineering fields such as aerospace and defense. The bibliographic details of the project outputs are as follows:
  

  • Karabal, M., & Yildiz, A. (2023, June). Creep Modeling of 3D Printed Carbon Black Reinforced Polyetherimide Composites. In 2023 10th International Conference on Recent Advances in Air and Space Technologies (RAST) (pp. 1-6). IEEE.

  • Karabal, M., & Yıldız, A. (2024). Creep resistance enhancement and modeling of 3D printed Polyetherimide/carbon black composites. Composite Structures, 345, 118398.

• ITU Aviation Institute Develops LLM-Based Digital Assistants for Airline Operations
  

  ITU Aviation Institute is actively working on an LLM (Large Language Model)-based digital assistant project aimed at streamlining and improving the efficiency of airline operational processes. The project stands out for its ability to adapt to the dynamic and complex structure of airline operations, offering rapid and accurate information delivery.
  The digital assistant was introduced at two significant aviation forums: Airspace World and Eurocontrol FLYAI Forum. The project attracted great interest with its innovative solutions for enhancing operational workflows, improving pilot and crew communication, managing airspace, and performing data analysis.
  The initiative is designed to boost the operational efficiency of airlines and contribute to the ongoing digital transformation in the aviation sector. With advanced natural language processing capabilities, the digital assistant offers a user-friendly experience and can be seamlessly integrated into operational processes through its AI-powered learning mechanism.
  Live and interactive demonstrations at Airspace World and Eurocontrol FLYAI Forum were met with great enthusiasm from key stakeholders in the aviation industry. These successful presentations showcased the potential of the digital assistant to revolutionize operational decision-making and reaffirmed ITU’s leadership in driving innovative solutions in the field of aviation.
  

• Aviation Institute Offers Innovative Solutions Through BAP Projects
  

  As of 2024, the ITU Aviation Institute has completed four distinct projects supported by the Scientific Research Projects Coordination Unit (BAP), developing innovative technologies that stand out in dynamic computation, advanced material design, and energy absorption performance enhancement.
  The first project, titled “FPGA-Based 6-DoF Dynamical Model Accelerator Design,” was led by Dr. Ramazan Yeniçeri. It developed an FPGA-based accelerator to speed up the computational processes of complex dynamic systems. By simulating the three-dimensional movements of drones through hardware-based solutions, the project significantly reduced computation time compared to conventional software solutions, offering critical advantages in real-time applications.
  Under the leadership of Dr. Kaan Yıldız, the project titled “Advanced Dynamic Performance of Polyurethane Foams with Elastomeric Nanoparticles” aimed to improve the dynamic mechanical properties of polyurethane foams. The study increased the vibration damping capability of the foams by 31% using elastomeric nanoparticle additives and developed new material models. These findings present substantial opportunities for both sandwich composite designs and advanced engineering applications.
  Another project, “Enhanced Energy Absorption Performance with Indented Auxetic Structures,” focused on increasing the energy absorption capacity of foam-filled indented auxetic structures. The project achieved up to a 346% improvement in energy absorption capacity and notable increases in mechanical strength, providing new solutions for lightweight and high-strength engineering structures.
  Finally, the project titled “Mechanical Properties of Hybrid Re-entrant and S-Shaped Auxetic Lattice Metamaterials Investigated Through Finite Element Analysis,” also led by Dr. Kaan Yıldız, examines hybrid designs of re-entrant and S-shaped auxetic structures. The study aimed to optimize energy absorption capacity while laying a foundation for lightweight, durable, and energy-absorbing structures in fields such as aviation and mechanical engineering.
  These projects underscore the ITU Aviation Institute’s contributions to innovative technologies and its leadership in offering advanced engineering solutions, setting a precedent for the sector.
  

• Aviation Institute Researchers Publish Cutting-Edge Studies in International Peer-Reviewed Journals
  

  Throughout 2024, ITU Aviation Institute achieved remarkable success in the fields of aviation, materials science, and autonomous systems by publishing numerous significant academic studies in international peer-reviewed journals. Researchers contributed valuable insights to the scientific literature with their innovative approaches. The published studies are listed below:

  • “Model-based FPGA Implementation of a 6-DoF Dynamical Model Accelerator” was published in IEEE Access. Based on research conducted at ITU ARC Avionics Laboratory, this study designed an FPGA-based accelerator for solving 6-degree-of-freedom dynamical model equations rapidly. The system solved nonlinear equations in just 7.2 microseconds, offering a significant speed advantage over software-based methods. This research provides a crucial solution for applications like aviation where accuracy and speed are essential, introducing a new perspective to the industry using model-based design and high-level synthesis methods.

  • “Loss of Control Prevention of an Agile Aircraft: Dynamic Command Saturation Approach” appeared in the AIAA Journal of Guidance, Control, and Dynamics. This study proposed an online maneuver limiting strategy using a Lyapunov-based command limiter to prevent loss of control in aircraft. The research demonstrated significant improvements in maneuverability compared to traditional methods, enhancing aircraft agility without compromising safety. The findings present an innovative solution to prevent control loss, addressing a critical gap in the industry.

  • “CNT Reinforced PEI and PEEK Nanocomposites: A Comparison on the Thermal and Rheological Properties” was published in Polymer Testing. This research focused on reinforcing high-temperature polymers PEI (polyetherimide) and PEEK (polyether ether ketone) with carbon nanotubes (CNT). The study sheds light on the development of lightweight and multifunctional materials with high-temperature resistance.
    

  • “Autonomous Sensing Architected Materials” was featured in Advanced Functional Materials. This study contributed significantly to the design of innovative materials incorporating autonomous sensing architectures.

  • “Evaluating Trinocular Camera Configurations and Fisheye View for Enhanced Feature-Based Visual Aerial Odometry” and “Canonical Trinocular Camera Setups and Fisheye View for Enhanced Feature-Based Visual Aerial Odometry” were both published in IEEE Access. These studies offered critical analyses and methods to enhance the performance of forward-looking systems in aerial vehicles, contributing to the development of autonomous systems.

  • “Stability and Safety Assurance of an Aircraft: A Practical Application of Control Lyapunov and Barrier Functions” was made accessible on the SSRN platform. This study developed an innovative method to improve aircraft stability and safety through the practical application of control Lyapunov and barrier functions.

  These noteworthy articles once again highlight ITU Aviation Institute’s potential to provide innovative contributions to the global scientific community. The bibliographic details of the studies mentioned are as follows:

  • Memiş, S., Yeniçeri R., "Model-based FPGA Implementation of A 6-DoF Dynamical Model Accelerator," IEEE Access, vol.12, pp.45279-45298, 2024.
    

  • Altunkaya, E. Ç., Çatak, A., Koyuncu, E., & Özkol, İ. (2024). Loss-of-Control Prevention of an Agile Aircraft: Dynamic Command Saturation Approach. Journal of Guidance, Control, and Dynamics, 1-13
    

  • Kayginok, F., Karabal, M., Yıldız, A., & Cebeci, H. (2024). CNT reinforced PEI and PEEK nanocomposites: A comparison on the thermal and rheological properties. Polymer Testing, 137, 108519.
    

  • Utzeri, M., Cebeci, H., & Kumar, S. (2024). Autonomous Sensing Architected Materials. Advanced Functional Materials, 2411975.
    

  • Roghani, S. E. S., & Koyuncu, E. (2024). Evaluating Trinocular Camera Configurations and Fisheye View for Enhanced Feature-based Visual Aerial Odometry. IEEE Access.

  • Roghani, S. E. S., & Koyuncu, E. (2024). Canonical Trinocular Camera Setups and Fisheye View for Enhanced Feature-Based Visual Aerial Odometry. IEEE Access, 12, 134888-134901.

  • Altunkaya, E. C., Çatak, A., Demir, M., Koyuncu, E., & Özkol, İ. (2024). Stability and Safety Assurance of an Aircraft: A Practical Application of Control Lyapunov and Barrier Functions. Available at SSRN 4823223.
    

• Advancing UAV Autonomy with Differential Flatness
  

  Researchers at ITU Aerospace Research Center are conducting advanced studies on the application of differential flatness in fixed-wing aircraft dynamics. This mathematical property simplifies control and trajectory planning by reducing complex nonlinear dynamics into a manageable set of flat outputs. The research focuses on designing efficient algorithms to optimize aircraft paths, ensuring greater precision, feasibility, and adaptability in real-world missions.
  A recent study conducted by the team addressed the robustness of planned trajectories under model uncertainties, such as variations in aircraft mass. By analyzing how these uncertainties propagate between coordinate frames, the researchers developed a framework to improve the resilience of trajectory planning. For example, in the case of a complex barrel roll maneuver, simulations demonstrated how mass uncertainties affected thrust and angular rate planning, and the team proposed methods to mitigate these errors. These insights contribute to the development of robust trajectory planning systems for autonomous UAVs under variable conditions.
  

• Participation in AIAA SCITECH 2023 Forum

  Faculty members of the Aviation Institute shared the outcomes of their various projects and thesis studies at the AIAA SciTech event in Maryland, USA.
  
  Aviation Institute faculty members took center stage at the prestigious AIAA Science and Technology Forum and Exposition (AIAA SciTech) in National Harbor, Maryland, USA. The event, renowned as one of the most important aerospace conferences in the world, provided a platform for experts to share research and advancements in the field. The faculty members and their graduate students presented a diverse range of projects and thesis studies, highlighting the institution's commitment to advancing aerospace science and technology. The following is a comprehensive list of publications showcased at the conference:
  

  • Akın Çatak, Ahmet T. Çetin, Emre Koyuncu, “Model Uncertainty-aware Adaptive Controller Design with Online Parameter Identification”.

  • Eren Ertuğrul, Emre Koyuncu, “Neural Network-based UAV System Identification from Sparse Flight Test Data”.

  • Eyüphan Küçükkalfa, Aliakbar Ghaderiaram, Kaan Yıldız, Mohammad Fotouhi, Amir Asadi, Hülya Cebeci, “Damage Detection of CNT/CNC-reinforced Foam-cored Sandwich Composites by Acoustic Emission Tests under Flexural Load”.

  • Said K. Cengiz, Ayşe A. Sarı, Abdullah Çerkezoğlu, Muhammed H. Yılmaz, Ramazan Yeniçeri, “ARCHI-Pilot: A Model-Based Autopilot Software Implementation using FreeRTOS with Automatic Code Generation”.
    

  • Sezer Memiş, Ramazan Yeniçeri, “Towards FPGA Based Digital Twin of UAV Swarms: An Area Efficient Hardware Accelerator of Transformation Matrix of 6-DoF Block”.
    

  • Merve Karabal, Ramazan Yüksel, Fulden Kaygınok, Alptekin Yıldız, Hülya Cebeci, “Embedded Piezoresistive Sensors Printed by FFF for Aerospace Applications”.
    

  • Esra Demir, İbrahim Özkol, “Some Critical Issues in Application of Lagrangian Mechanics to Air Vehicles Analysis: An Example of Quadrotor”.
    

  • Çağrı E. Altunkaya, İbrahim Özkol, “Auto-landing Fault-Tolerant Control System Design for a Light Aircraft”.
    

• ASELSAN Supported UAV Projects Successfully Completed
  

  Two mutually supporting unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) projects funded by ASELSAN and developed at ITU Aerospace Research Center have been successfully completed.
  
  Two pioneering projects, led by Dr. Emre Koyuncu, Dr. Ramazan Yeniceri, and Prof. Hulya Cebeci, are pushing the boundaries of UAV technology with their innovative shape-shifting capabilities. These shape-shifting UAV systems boast special designs that enable them to dynamically alter their physical structures during flight, setting them apart from conventional counterparts.
  The first project, titled “Ballistically Launchable UAV (Bal-UAV)” directed by Dr. Emre Koyuncu and Dr. Ramazan Yeniceri, aims to significantly contribute to the evolving landscape of shape-shifting UAVs. Concurrently, the “Ballistic Launch System for Shape Changing Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (BLS)” project, led by Prof. Hulya Cebeci and senior researcher Dr. Alptekin Yildiz, focuses on the ballistic launch of the Bal-UAV developed in the initial project.
  The projects incorporated 3D printing technology for fabricating UAVs, ensuring precision and customization within the scope of the project. After thorough design verifications, the prototyped vehicles underwent successful flight tests, demonstrating stability and operational capabilities. The Ballistic Launch System (BLS) developed in the project allowed for the launch of up to five UAVs from the same system, showcasing an efficient launch mechanism. Additionally, the BLS can accommodate variable launch angles, providing a solution to meet diverse operational requirements.
  The success of these endeavors not only represents a leap forward in UAV technology but also underscores the potential applications of shape-shifting capabilities in various scenarios, including defense, surveillance, and exploration. These projects stand as a significant example of the collaborative efforts of the research teams in shaping the future of UAV innovation.
  

• Participation in RAST’23
  

  Faculty members of the Aviation Institute shared the outcomes of their various projects and thesis studies at the RAST’23 event in Istanbul, Türkiye.
  
  Aviation Institute faculty members demonstrated their commitment to advancing aerospace technologies as they actively participated in the "Recent Advances in Air and Space Technologies" (RAST’23) conference. This biennial event, organized at the international level by the National Defense University, Air Force Academy, provides an important platform for scholars and experts to share insights and discoveries. Held at the National Defense University in Istanbul, Türkiye, the conference witnessed the exchange of research results from the Aviation Institute's faculty members. Their projects and supervised theses, reflecting the latest advances in the field, contributed to the global discourse on aerospace technologies. The following is a comprehensive list of publications presented by the Aviation Institute faculty during the RAST’23 conference:
  

  • Barış Yılmaz, Elif Akar, Eyüphan Küçükkalfa, Kaan Yıldız, “Direct Foaming Approach for Reinforcing Re-entrant Auxetic Structures for Superior Compressive Properties and Energy Absorption”.

  • Merve Karabal, Alptekin Yıldız, “Creep Modeling of 3D Printed Carbon Black Reinforced Polyetherimide Composites”.

  • Muhammed Murat Özbek, Emre Koyuncu. “Missile Evasion Maneuver Generation with Model-free Deep Reinforcement Learning”.
    

  • Ramazan Yeniçeri, Emre Koyuncu, Serkan Şenel, Mehmet Zeki Paşaoğlu, Ahmet Talha Çetin, İpek Ösken, Onur Sevimli, Gürkan Çetin, Bariş Yalçin, Mert İrez, Taha Taner Inal, Mehmet Altan Toksöz, “A Multi-drone System for Formation Flight and Solo Attack”.
    

• Türkiye Sustainable Aviation Alliance Established
  

  “Türkiye Sustainable Aviation Alliance” was established in cooperation with Boeing Türkiye, Istanbul Technical University and Turkish Airlines. 
  
  The opening program of the platform, in which the faculty members of the Aviation Institute took part as project coordinators and researchers, started with a presentation on sustainability in aviation by Brian Moran, Vice President of Global Sustainability Policy and Partnerships at Boeing. Aysem Sargin, Managing Director and Country Executive at Boeing Türkiye, Prof. Lutfiye Durak Ata, Vice-Rector of ITU and Levent Konukcu, Chief Investment and Technology of THY, attended the signing ceremony that marked the beginning of this exciting journey for our country's aviation industry. The event concluded with a panel titled "Collaboration for a Sustainable Future in Aviation" moderated by Filiz Hayirli Tepebasi, Strategy and Public Affairs Director of Boeing Türkiye, and featuring Deniz Dastan, Corporate Sustainability Management Manager of THY, Ismail H. Polat, Deputy General Manager for Planning of IGA Istanbul Airport, and Prof. Hulya Cebeci, Director of ITU Aerospace Research Center (ITU ARC). Addressing the main objectives of the platform in the panel, Prof. Cebeci stated that the aim of the platform is to create a cooperation network among stakeholders on sustainability, raise awareness, organize training programs, investigate the potential of the use of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and create a roadmap as a recommendation. In the project that will contribute to the vision of ITU, which declared the 250th year of its establishment as the "Year of Sustainability", ITU ARC will perform its duty to ensure synchronization in university-industry collaborations with the role of "Project Manager".
  

• Türkiye Sustainable Aviation Alliance K12 Event Held
  

  The “Sustainability Studies in Aviation & Learn by Playing” event was held with 6th grade students at ITU Development Foundation Schools (ITU GVO) under the leadership of ITU Aerospace Research Center (ITU ARC), the Sustainable Aviation Alliance manager of Turkey, and the faculty members of Aviation Institute.
  
  ITU ARC as the manager of Türkiye Sustainable Aviation Alliance in collaboration with the faculty members from Aviation Institute, organized the “Sustainability Studies in Aviation & Learn by Playing” event at ITU GVO, engaging 6th grade students in a transformative learning experience.
  Commencing with an insightful seminar covering fundamental aviation concepts, sustainability principles, and ongoing efforts in the aviation sector, students were immersed in the dynamic world of sustainable aviation. The session fostered awareness as students delved into current and prospective challenges facing the aviation industry, along with innovative solutions.
  A pivotal interactive segment involved students actively exploring the 17 Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations. Through a question-and-answer activity, students engaged in a dialogue on the sustainability goals they selected, employing an interactive education method that encouraged their active participation. This initiative provided students with a unique opportunity to identify and discuss their aspirations for a sustainable future.
  As a part of the event, students eagerly participated in the “Zero Carbon City” board game, specially modified by the Türkiye Sustainable Aviation Alliance. This engaging game allowed students to grasp and apply sustainability principles in a practical setting, reinforcing the importance of sustainable practices in their everyday lives.
  The “Sustainability Studies in Aviation & Learn by Playing” event not only enriched students' understanding of aviation and sustainability but also inspired them to actively contribute to a more sustainable future. The collaborative effort between ITU ARC, Türkiye Sustainable Aviation Alliance, and Aviation Institute showcased a commitment to fostering environmental consciousness and shaping the next generation of environmentally responsible individuals.
  

• HAVELSAN Supported Swarm Robotic Flight Systems Project Completed
  

  Launched in 2020, the Swarm Robotic Flight Systems, a comprehensive project supported by HAVELSAN, was successfully completed.
  
  A pioneering project led by Dr. Emre Koyuncu and Dr. Ramazan Yeniçeri and faculty members of Aviation Institute, supported by HAVELSAN, has reached new heights in the capability of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The study focused on the development of high-speed and highly maneuverable UAVs equipped with swarming and diving capabilities. Integral to the project's success was the creation of ground control station software, a pivotal tool for future UAV studies. The team also established a robust communication network, both in hardware and software, playing a crucial role in enabling coordinated swarm flights. The project achieved successful completion following rigorous acceptance tests. Presenting academic output, the team showcased their achievements at the 10th International Conference on Recent Advances in Air and Space Technologies (RAST2023), held on June 7-9, 2023, with a study titled “A Multi-drone System for Formation Flight and Solo Attack”. The study, emphasizing the innovative swarm capabilities and advanced functionalities of the developed UAVs, has been published with the DOI: 10.1109/RAST57548.2023.10198012. This project represents a significant contribution to UAV technology, and the successful integration of state-of-the-art hardware and software solutions and academic contributions position this project as a significant advance in the field of unmanned aerial systems.
  

• Summer Internship in Avionics Laboratory Provides Valuable Experience for Students
  

  Under the leadership of Dr. Ramazan Yeniceri, the summer internship students at ITU Aerospace Research Center Avionics laboratory achieved a great success by developing a sun sensor and an ultrasonic anemometer in four weeks.
  
  The summer internship program, led by the Avionics Laboratory and under the supervision of Dr. Ramazan Yeniçeri, was performed by Res. Assist. Sezer Memiş, Res. Assist. Emine Elif Yiğit, and a group of devoted students have witnessed significant achievements. The team carried out outstanding research and demonstrated their creativity and skills by developing a sun sensor system. The students initiated their journey by designing the sun sensor system, procuring components, and modeling their concepts in Simulink. Progressing further, they developed sophisticated algorithms, seamlessly translating them into embedded software deployed on a real-time operating system (RTOS). The multidisciplinary approach extended to PCB drawing and solid model design, and the team utilized 3D printing technology to bring their concepts to life. Notably, the students successfully transmitted measurements over WiFi, achieving an impressive deviation of less than 1 degree using over 30 Light Dependent Resistors (LDRs). This technological feat reflects their commitment to precision and innovation. In a parallel internship group, students took on the challenge of developing an ultrasonic anemometer, demonstrating their prowess in designing devices capable of measuring speed on two axes. Rigorous testing underscored the reliability and functionality of their creations, marking significant strides in the students' academic and professional development. These transformative projects not only represent a testament to the students' capabilities but also pave the way for future internships and academic careers. Aviation Institute continues to foster an environment where theoretical knowledge converges with hands-on experience, empowering students to contribute to advancements in technology and shaping the future of aviation and beyond.
  

• AiPort to Develop Smart Cameras to Monitor Airplane Cabins
  

  In collaboration with SunExpress Airlines, AiPort, founded by the Aviation Institute faculty members, is developing the software and hardware systems for smart cameras to detect airline cabin events such as boarding and cleaning, reporting them to airline control center in real time.
  
  AiPort, founded by the Aviation Institute faculty members Dr. Emre Koyuncu and Res. Assist. Muhammet Aksoy, is spearheading the development of intelligent camera modules designed to monitor airliner cabins, aiming to enhance operational efficiency during critical turnaround phases. The innovative project focuses on real-time detection of in-cabin events such as boarding, deboarding, and cleaning. Strategically positioned at key points during each turnaround phase, the smart cameras will capture crucial events inside the cabin and relay the information in real-time to the airline control center. This breakthrough initiative promises to streamline processes, optimize workflow, and contribute to an overall improvement in airline operations. Currently, two prototypes have been manufactured, and rigorous preliminary testing is underway at the ITU Aerospace Research Center (ITU ARC) labs. These tests encompass both software and hardware evaluations, ensuring the robustness and reliability of the smart camera modules. The proof-of-concept phase is slated to occur at the end of November 2023, with a collaborative effort and commitment from SunExpress Airlines. The partnership signifies a significant step toward real-world implementation and validation of AiPort's innovative cabin monitoring solution. For further details and updates on this pioneering project, interested parties are encouraged to visit the official AiPort website at aiport.aero. 
  

• “AI4HyDrop” Horizon European Project Develop Artificial Intelligence Supported and Automatic UAV Flight Approval System

  The ITU Aerospace Research Center “AIGNC” research group, which includes faculty members from Aviation Institute, is developing an automatic flight approval system for unmanned aerial vehicles in order to improve Urban Air Traffic Management in smart cities.
  
  ITU ARC Artificial Intelligence, Guidance, Navigation and Control (AIGNC) led by Dr. Emre Koyuncu is taking a significant stride in shaping the future of urban traffic management. The team is focused to developing an innovative automated flight approval system for drones, aimed at revolutionizing drone flight plan generation, risk assessments, and overall planning processes in the project. This pioneering project addresses the growing demand for efficient drone traffic management in urban environments, aiming to facilitate seamless integration into the airspace. The key components of the initiative include the formulation of a standardized flight plan format and a user-friendly interface that empowers operators to file their flight plans effortlessly. The collected flight plans undergo thorough scrutiny, with AI-based algorithms identifying anomalies or conflicts. The system proposes resolutions, ensuring a streamlined and secure drone operation environment. Collaborating with partners from the European Union (EU), the project extends its scope to include airspace resolutions, wind and capacity estimations, and conceptual designs for Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM). The project is EU-funded and is scheduled to span 30 months, commencing from September 2023. As the project unfolds, it promises to contribute significantly to the development of a safer, more efficient urban airspace for drone operations.
  

• Generates Synthetic Data for all Quadcopter Vision-Based Navigation Studies
  

  The AIGNC at ITU ARC has reached the capability to produce synthetic data for virtually all aspects of quadcopter vision-based navigation studies. This includes tasks like object detection, depth estimation, and visual odometry, employing camera setups equipped with realistic pinhole and fisheye lenses, whether monocular, binocular, or trinocular.
  
  PhD candidate Seyed Erfan Seyed Roghani, a member of the research group of ITU Aerospace Research Center “AIGNC”, which includes faculty members from the Aviation Institute, has achieved a milestone in the realm of aerial technology by developing a cutting-edge platform tailored for quadcopters. This Unity-based platform introduces synthetic vision-based navigation data, reshaping the landscape of quadcopter control methodologies. The platform, meticulously crafted by Roghani, integrates popular quadcopter control techniques, providing a versatile and powerful tool for researchers and developers. Leveraging Unity's advanced graphical capabilities, the platform stands out by simulating various camera lenses, including pinhole and fisheye, motion blur, and lens distortion. What sets this platform apart is its ability to generate synthetic vision-based navigation data explicitly designed for quadcopters. By seamlessly integrating pose data and depth images, it meets the unique requirements of quadcopter navigation, addressing challenges specific to this aerial platform. Beyond its fundamental navigation capabilities, the platform opens doors to the application of artificial intelligence (AI)-based image processing techniques. Notably, researchers can implement object detection and semantic segmentation, expanding the platform's utility beyond navigation into broader AI applications. Roghani's innovation represents a significant leap forward in the field of quadcopter technology, offering a comprehensive and adaptive solution for both navigation and advanced image processing. As the platform continues to evolve, it holds the promise of reshaping how quadcopters navigate and perceive their surroundings, fostering advancements in various industries reliant on this emerging technology.
  

• GPS Independent Anti-UAV Drone Project Delivered to ASELSAN
  

  In the project supported by ASELSAN, a UAV with visual navigation and visual guidance capabilities was developed. The drone, which has artificial intelligence-based visual detection and tracking and visual inertial odometry capabilities, aims to protect critical systems (such as airports) where electronic warfare support (electronic jamming, etc.) is not possible.
  
  An important collaboration between ASELSAN and ITU Aerospace Research Center (ITU ARC) has resulted in the creation of a cutting-edge drone equipped with fully visual navigation and guidance capabilities. This collaborative effort integrates artificial intelligence (AI)-based visual target tracking and visual-inertial navigation, presenting a transformative solution for defending critical facilities, including airports, where traditional electronic warfare support may be rendered ineffective. The project opens new possibilities for navigating seamlessly across the entire operational envelope without the need for GPS data. Key features of the developed drone include AI-based visual target tracking, visual-inertial navigation and autonomous operations.
  In the final stage of project, flight tests were conducted to validate the visual target tracking and guidance algorithms, considering different weather conditions and time zones. The acceptance tests took place at ITU ARC Örencik UAV Test Site, where two Anti-UAV drones produced within the project were delivered to ASELSAN, marking the successful completion of this initiative. This collaborative achievement not only signifies a leap forward in drone technology but also reinforces the capabilities of AI-based visual navigation in critical defense applications. The project's success sets a precedent for future innovations in autonomous systems that can operate reliably in challenging and contested environments.
  

• IGA Hub Iniatives Program Awards
  

  The 2022 initiatives of the iGA Hub Initiatives Program, launched by iGA and ITU ARI Teknokent, who teamed up to support startups in the field of Civil Aviation and Airport Management, made their appearances on the final stage of the Big Bang Startup Challenge. iGA awarded a total of TRY 800,000 to six startups. Our research assistant, Muhammed Aksoy, won an award as the founding partner of one of these start-ups. Congratulations on him and Assoc. Prof. Emre Koyuncu for their success.

• FUTURETEX ISTANBUL CONTEST

  Our graduate students Dilan Arslan and Melisa Dinçer participated in the FutureTex Istanbul context organized by the Istanbul Textile and Raw Materials Exporters Association (İTHİB) and ranked the fourth. The contest evaluates the combination of textile and innovation which we participated with the project “Anemon: Talking Surfaces” enabling antenna design on textile-based surfaces via as-developed conductive inks. The project was supervised by Assoc. Prof. Hülya Cebeci in collaboration with Asst. Prof. Başak Özkendirci (Doğuş University) and Asst. Prof. Ramazan Yeniçeri.

• EUROPEN CONFERENCE ON COMPOSITE MATERIALS ECCM20

  As a result of the studies carried out within the Aviation Institute, we attended the European Conference on Composite Materials ECCM20 on 26-30 June 2022 in Lausanne, Switzerland with seven different presentations. The studies were guided by Assoc. Prof. Hülya Cebeci, Asst. Prof. Alptekin Yıldız and Asst. Prof Kaan Yıldız in collaboration with our research partners Assoc. Prof. Elif Özden-Yenigun (Royal College of Art) and Asst. Prof. Başak Özkendirci (Doğuş University). The details of the studies presented by our students Adel Alrai, Çağın Emre, Emir Karcı, Eyüphan Küçükkalfa, Melike Ertürk, Melisa Dinçer and Yunus Emre Bozkurt are given below.
  📆 27/06/2022 – Melike Ertürk – “Investigation of the Mechanical Properties of Fuzzy CNT and CNT/CNC Integrated Glass Fiber/Epoxy Composites with Different Reinforcing Strategies"
  📆 28/06/2022 – Emir Karcı – "Effect of Weaving Patterns on the Wettability and Mechanical Properties of 3D Woven I-Beam Composites"
  📆 28/06/2022 – Eyüphan Küçükkalfa – "Flexural Behaviour of Polyurethane Foam Filled High-Performance 3-D Woven I-Beam Composites"
  📆 28/06/2022 – Adel ALRAI – "Toward sustainable Active Cellulose Nanocrystals-based ink for Structural Health Monitoring"
  📆 28/06/2022 – Yunus Emre Bozkurt – "Establishing Synergistic Effects of BN and CNTs on the Thermal Conductivity of PEEK Filaments for 3D Printing"
  📆 28/06/2022 – Melisa Dinçer – "Influence of TEX Linear Density on Mechanical Properties of 3D Woven I-Beam Composites"
  📆 29/06/2022 – Çağın Emre – "Efficient and Versatile 3D Woven Composite Manufacturing: Novel Approaches on the Quality of Composite Fabrication"
  

• BAP PROJECT: INVESTIGATION OF DYNAMIC MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF ELASTOMERIC NANOPARTICLES REINFORCED POLYURETHANE FOAMS

  The project entitled "Investigation of Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Elastomeric Nanoparticles Reinforced Polyurethane Foams" has been supported under the General Research Projects Programme by Istanbul Technical University Scientific Research Projects Coordination Department. Asst. Prof. Kaan Yildiz will serve as the principal investigator whereas the project team consists of Assoc. Prof. Hülya Cebeci and Prof. Aytaç Arıkoğlu of Faculty of Aeronautics and Astronautics and Res. Asst. Eyüphan Küçükkalfa. The main goal of the project is to improve the dynamic mechanical properties of polyurethane foams via elastomeric nanoparticles reinforcements and developing a high-fidelity model by using the experimental data.

• BAP PROJECT: MATHEMATICAL MODELING OF CREEP BEHAVIOR OF CARBON BLACK REINFORCED PEI COMPOSITES MANUFACTURED BY ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

  The project named "Mathematical Modeling of Creep Behavior of Carbon Black Reinforced PEI Composites Fabricated by Additive Manufacturing", led by Assist. Prof. Alptekin Yıldız, has been supported by the ITU BAP Coordination Unit as part of the Research Initial Support Project (ABP). The aim of this project is to examine the experimentally obtained creep behavior of composites produced by additive manufacturing with the mathematical models given in the literature.
  In advanced engineering applications such as aerospace and defense technologies, PEI stands out with its superior properties such as high mechanical strength, high thermal stability, and non-flammability. PEI composite filaments with carbon black fillers were produced and test samples were printed. The purpose is to investigate the effects of the production method on the behavior and in-service performance of the composites after 3D printing of test samples. It is aimed to make material characterizations and to model these behaviors mathematically.
  

• Managing Resilience in Air Transportation Networks with AI
  

  In the management of airspaces, a paradigm shift is taking place on the continuation of flights not over known points, but with operations based on high precision calculations called Trajectory Based Operations (TBO)…(click for details)

• ITU - ASELSAN Collaboration in GPS-denied Flight
  

  Whether for civilian or military purposes, navigation studies continue at full speed in academia and research and development units of companies in the sector….(click for details)
  

• “Control Flight without Knowing What you Fly” 
  

  An important part of the innovative work carried out within the Aviation Institute is modeling, simulation and control algorithms development projects. The development of SI (System Identification) based control algorithms, which is one of these studies and one of the hot research topics of today, is carried out by researchers within the Aviation Institute...(click for details)
  

• SESAR JU funded Project – FACT: Future of All Aviation CNS Technology (FACT)
  

  Our EU-funded project aims to increase the safety, security, efficiency and solidity of future air traffic management (ATM) systems by updating CNS technology. FACT is an SESAR2020 exploratory research project investigating possible enhancements of CNS capabilities for low altitude operations. In this context, a coexistence of drones and GA including rotorcrafts within the controlled and uncontrolled airspace is the primary focus...(click for details)
  

• SRUS

  Within the scope of "High Maneuverable UAV and Hybrid Vertical Take-off UAV Research and Development Project (SRUS)" that we are working with Havelsan, High Maneuverable (Kamikaze) UAV and Hybrid Vertical Take-off (VTOL) UAV systems and their control systems, swarm algorithms, avionic systems, dynamics and modelling, and the development of image and navigation algorithms...(click for details)
  

• ITU is building Open Source Autopilot Software: ARCHI-PILOT 
  

  Archi-pilot is an autopilot software being developed with 4 undergraduate students under Aerospace Research Center in ITU. The modularity and flexibility of the PX4 and abilities of ArduPilot were inspired, whilst using the FreeRTOS environment. This for the future possibility of usage on any FreeRTOS running board without being forced to use any particular hardware. It is originated by solving the autonomy of aircraft problems but aimed flexibility to be used on any autonomous vehicle such as robotics arm, ground vehicle etc. ...(click for details)
  

• Career Development Program Award
  

  Assist. Prof. Kaan Yildiz has been awarded the Career Development Program (3501) by TUBITAK. The project aims to enhance the vibration characteristics and energy absorption capabilities of tensegrity structures using nanomaterials…(click for details)
  

• Thermally Conductive Filaments for 3D Printing Fabrication Has Been Developed
  

  The project titled “The Next Generation Thermal Management Materials and Structures” with a scope of developing thermally conductive 3D filaments, funded by Boeing and developed at ITU was successfully completed under the supervision of Assoc. Prof. Hulya Cebeci (Department of Aeronautical Engineering) and Assist. Prof. Alptekin Yıldız (Aviation Institute) as a researcher with a team of graduate students…(click for details) 
  

• Smart Wearable Textiles
  

  Head of Textiles Programme, Anne Toomey, and senior tutor at Textiles Programme, Dr. Elif Ozden-Yenigun from Royal College of Art (RCA) has visited Istanbul Technical University Aerospace Research Center for discussing potential collaborations which led to a new project on wearable respiration sensors…(click for details) 
  

• A Spin-Off Company Established
  

  Res. Assist. Yunus Emre Bozkurt and Assist. Prof. Alptekin YILDIZ from Aviation Institute and Assoc. Prof. Hülya Cebeci from Aeronautical Eng. Department are granted TÜBİTAK 1512 - Entrepreneurship Support Program (BiGG) for the project titled as “Functional Composite Filament Production” …(click for details)
  

• TUBITAK Interim Evaluation Reports: The 12th-month and the 18th reports of the project
  

  The 12th-month report of the project titled "Manufacturing 3D woven I, T Profiled Beams and Monocoque Airfoil Shaped Preforms-Prepregs and Preparing Their Structural Composites" supported under The 1003 - Primary Subjects R&D Funding Program of Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK) has been accepted in April 2021...(click for details)