Modeling of solar electric propulsion system for UAVs

Abstract

UAVs are growing their importance in both civil and military applications. The endurance of UAVs are related to their on board fuel carrying capacity which is limited by the weight class of aircraft. There is a need for long endurance UAVs for persistent Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance(ISTAR) missions. One of the solutions to overcome the endurance limitations for usage of UAV is the renewable energy. Among all renewable energy, solar energy is found more economical. Electrical powered aircraft/(UAV) propulsion system uses electrical energy to change the velocity of UAV. Electric propulsion system is now mature and widely used technology on spacecraft. In this work, UAV with solar cells on the surface of the wings as well as on board energy storage is discussed. This paper quantifies the requirement for perpetual endurance in solar-powered flight.