Calculation of the maximum endurance of a small unmanned aerial vehicle in a hover

Abstract

Optimizing the flight performance, chiefly maximum endurance, of small unmanned aerial vehicles (SUAVs) relying on propellers powered by an electric motor/s as a form of propulsion is key challenge in SUAV development. Choosing the correct combination of propellers, electric motors and batteries is necessary and knowledge of characteristics of all three factors is of a great help. The paper presents a simple blade element model (BEM), which can be used to calculate the propeller performance characteristics. This model is further validated by measurements in the wind tunnel. The paper also presents measurements of electric motor and battery discharge characteristics. Finally, the paper presents a method of calculation of maximum endurance in hover.