Algorithm for selecting UAV’s electric propulsion system parameters based on flight route

Abstract

In recent years, unmanned aerial vehicles with electric propulsion have taken a substantial UAV market share. Electric driving power provides a clean and simple operation, reliability and ease of maintenance. Electric power plants also have low levels of noise and vibration. The purpose of this article is to provide an algorithm for selection of UAV’s electric propulsion parameters for the route, consisting of different flight modes. Small class UAV which performs the flight on the route with areas of climb, level flight and turn has been analyzed. This article describes mathematical models suitable for numerical calculation: the aerodynamic characteristics of UAV, the elements of UAV’s electric propulsion system, flight dynamics in different flight modes. Further, these mathematical models were linked in one algorithm. According to the algorithm the software for the calculation has been created. For different flight routes the configuration of the electrical power plant with high efficiency on the route has been calculated. The effects of the battery current and voltage settings on the propulsion efficiency have been investigated. Calculations results according to the algorithm showed that accounting for the flight route allows selecting the parameters of the electrical propulsion system of the UAV, more rational in terms of energy use compared to selection based on one main flight mode.