Abstract
AbstractThis study presents a methodology to estimate the battery consumption of an electric powerplant, based on brushless motors, typically used in light unmanned aerial systems. The methodology models brushless motors through an equivalent circuit obtained from their dynamic behaviour. Propellers’ data are taken from an experimental database. Furthermore, a variable speed controller efficiency is considered in the methodology. All the parameters involved in the model are adjusted by minimising the mean quadratic error of measurements taken in both direct and alternating currents. This model allows designers to predict energy consumption, also if any element of the powerplant changes, such as battery or propeller. Thus, it is useful for selecting the best powerplant for an actual RPAS operation. The results obtained to predict the current consumption of several electric powerplants show a coefficient of determination higher than 0.96. Finally, the methodology is validated by means of a case study of an actual RPAS, where the best powerplant is selected in terms of endurance.
Highlights
The remoted piloted aircraft system (RPAS), called unmanned aerial system (UAS), market is undergoing continuous expansion
From the standpoint of commercial applications carried out by drones, the market is focused on light platforms, which are equipped with electric propulsion systems [3,4,5,6,7,8,9]
Open category regulates operation of light drones, under 25kg of MTOM, but it imposes hard constraints to the operation to guarantee a low level of risk
Summary
The remoted piloted aircraft system (RPAS), called unmanned aerial system (UAS), market is undergoing continuous expansion. From the standpoint of commercial applications carried out by drones, the market is focused on light platforms, which are equipped with electric propulsion systems [3,4,5,6,7,8,9] This market expansion is conditioned by the regulatory framework. At American level, the commercial applications of light RPAS, under 25kg of MTOM (Maximum Take-Off Mass) are regulated by FAR Part 107 [10] This regulation does not allow to overfly people who are not directly involved in the aircraft operation. More risky operations could need certification or additional approvals The expansion of this market at European level is conditioned by the new regulatory framework published by the European Commission.
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