Sustainable drone manufacturing: Integration of generative design, additive manufacturing and circular economy 

Borsodi Eszter  – PhD student, University of Miskolc 

Winnie Atieno Onyango  – PhD student, University of Miskolc 

Dr. Takács Ágnes  –Associate professor, University of Miskolc 

Sustainable drone manufacturing: Integration of generative design, additive manufacturing and circular economy 

Published in GÉP 2025/1 

The rise of unmanned aerial vehicles in multiple sectors and the stricter environmental regulations initiate a growing need for sustainable design and manufacturing approaches in the drone industry. The mass of components can be reduced using generative design, while the mechanical properties can be preserved or even improved. This optimization is useful in drones, where flight duration and payload capacity are important parameters. Generative design supported by additive manufacturing reduces raw material consumption, which is a key principle in the circular economy. The aim of the paper is to explore how advanced technologies combined with circular principles can contribute to a more resource-conscious, sustainable future in drone manufacturing. These areas complement and enhance each other and together can form a powerful manufacturing solution that redefines engineering design while lowering environmental impact. 
https://www.gepujsag.hu/2025-1-4/