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 from 4:30–6:30PM for 9 weeks, and is open to students from all majors. 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.
SAMPLE 9 - WEEK COURSE OUTLINE:
4:30-6:30PM in the MARC (Day of Week TBD )
Week 1
Introduction and Building AirSwimmers
Week 2
Lecture on Flapping Wings and ESP32 Activities
Lecture on Arduino and PS3 Setup
Simple Servo Sweep Using Breadboard
Week 3
Lecture on Feedback Control and Wiring
Ultrasonic Sensor Feedback Example
Basics of Wiring Workshop
Week 4
Envelope Dynamics and Wing Making lecture
Control surfaces
Initial Blimp Build & Attach Premade Wings
Blimp Design Brainstorming
Week 5
Lecture on Blimp Ideation Project Resources.
Design Discussion With Faculty
Experimental Phase
Evelope Making Guide
Week 6
Finish Core Wiring
Produce Near-Finalized Blimp Design and Capabilities Plan
Week 7
Last Week to Request Additional Purchases or Components
Week 8
Final Product Open Studio
Presentation Review With Faculty.
Week 9
Final Presentation and Competition