MIX Biologically-inspired, Lighter-than-air, Instructional, Mechatronics Program (BLIMP)
The MIX Biologically-inspired, Lighter-than-air, Instructional, Mechatronics Program (BLIMP) introduces Mason students to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), autonomous systems, and advanced manufacturing through the hands-on design of flapping-wing lighter-than-air blimps. Sponsored by KEEN, the Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network, hosted by the MIX, in collaboration with Program Instructor and Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering, Daigo Shishika, PhD.
Over ten weeks, 18 students (six teams of three) will build their own bio-inspired blimps, gaining experience in mechanical systems, microcontrollers, computer vision, aircraft dynamics, and system integration, with the course culminating in a judged design competition. Blimps, known for their energy efficiency, collision resistance, and ability to operate safely near humans, serve as an ideal platform for robotics education. Students will learn vehicle dynamics, modeling, mechanism design, and control theory, while also exploring how body shape impacts aerodynamics and stability, and how bio-inspired wing designs enhance performance.
See video documentation for reference:
building flapping-wing lighter-than-air vehicles (blimp)
The workshop runs weekly on Tuesdays from 4:30–6:30PM for 9 weeks, and is open to students from all majors. Applications are due by September 11th, with acceptances sent September 15th. Successful completion earns a GMU digital micro-credential. Applications for the Fall 2026 short course will be released in mid-August.
A major focus is additive manufacturing, where students engage in material selection (balancing strength, weight, and cost-effectiveness), CAD modeling to generate 2D and 3D designs, and 3D printing using processes such as Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), followed by post-processing for finishing and assembly.
This interdisciplinary program emphasizes mechanical engineering while integrating electrical engineering and computer science, ultimately providing students with innovative skills and practical experience in robotics, autonomy, and advanced fabrication.
9 - WEEK COURSE OUTLINE:
4:30-6:30PM in the MARC (Day of Week Tuesday)
September 22nd
Introduction and Building AirSwimmers
September 29th
Lecture on Flapping Wings and ESP32 Activities
Lecture on Arduino and PS3 Setup
Simple Servo Sweep Using Breadboard
October 6th
Lecture on Feedback Control and Wiring
Ultrasonic Sensor Feedback Example
Basics of Wiring Workshop
October 13th
Envelope Dynamics and Wing Making lecture
Control surfaces
Initial Blimp Build & Attach Premade Wings
Blimp Design Brainstorming
October 20th
Lecture on Blimp Ideation Project Resources.
Design Discussion With Faculty
Experimental Phase
Evelope Making Guide
October 27th
Finish Core Wiring
Produce Near-Finalized Blimp Design and Capabilities Plan
November 3rd
Last Week to Request Additional Purchases or Components
November 10th
Final Product Open Studio
Presentation Review With Faculty.
November 17th
Final Presentation and Competition