Abstract—This study experimentally evaluates the design and performance of friction collector-based cleaning systems for the removal of Foreign Object Debris (FOD) on runways. A test rig was designed according to the guidelines established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) circulars, including a variable speed strip simulating a category 5 concrete runway and optimized collector elements to maximize efficiency. Experimental results demonstrate that the system achieved greater than 90% FOD removal efficiency when operating at speeds in excess of 12.24 km/h (7.5 mph). This design introduces significant innovations in the configuration of the collecting elements and dynamic adjustment to varying operating conditions. The findings highlight its potential to improve aircraft safety, reduce maintenance costs and extend runway life at airports with high air traffic density.

Keywords—automated cleaning, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Foreign Object Debris (FOD), picker, runway

Cite: Diaz Christofer, Alvis Mario, Samo Luis, Silva Yuri, and Apaza Jorge, "Design Considerations for the Design of Friction Pickers in Use for Runway Cleaning: An Experimental Study," International Journal of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics Research, Vol. 14, No. 5, pp. 556-570, 2025. doi: 10.18178/ijmerr.14.5.556-570

Copyright © 2025 by the authors. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited (CC BY 4.0).