Overview of Bell X-1 Inspired RC Aircraft: USC's Submission for Design Build Fly

The Bell X-1, a rocket-propelled aircraft developed in 1944, played a crucial role in the advancement of supersonic flight. Launched from the belly of a Boeing B-29 Superfortress, the Bell X-1 became the first aircraft to break the sound barrier, marking a pivotal moment in aviation history. In the 2025 AIAA Design Build Fly competition, teams are challenged to simulate this iconic aircraft and its launch platform. This paper presents a detailed overview of the University of South Carolina’s submission to the competition, providing insight into the team's approach to administrative organization, design considerations, and overall aircraft development. The paper explores the key systems engineered for the aircraft, including propulsion, flight control, and glider systems, as well as the integration of these systems to for competition missions. In addition to the design aspects, the paper highlights the use of advanced materials and manufacturing techniques that were incorporated into the project. The team employed composite materials, such as carbon fiber reinforced polymers, and additive manufacturing methods were utilized to fabricate complex geometries. Finally, the paper outlines the verification and testing procedures employed to qualify the aircraft. This includes the use of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) simulations to predict aerodynamic behavior and structural integrity. Additionally, the team conducted component-level load testing to ensure reliability and safety. Full-scale test flights were carried out to replicate scenarios described by the competition. Through these testing methods, the team ensured that the aircraft would meet all competition requirements and perform reliably under considered conditions. This project demonstrates the application of modern engineering techniques to legacy aircraft in the design and construction of this representative X-1 and B-29.