Conceptual design of a hybrid solar MALE UAV

Abstract

This study presents the conceptual design of a hybrid solar Medium-Altitude-Long-Endurance Unmanned-Aerial-Vehicle (MALE UAV) designed to perform surveillance-related missions, such as border patrolling, wildfires monitoring, atmospheric data recording, search and rescue missions and telecommunications. For this purpose, a conceptual design methodology was also developed, focusing on the energy management of the aerial platform. Specifically, the presizing calculations are presented, including the methods for estimating weight, aerodynamic and performance parameters. In order to perform a complete aerodynamic study and accurately estimate the aerodynamic coefficients, theoretical analytical methods were employed, along with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis. A refined weight sizing methodology is presented in detail, including a solar power estimation technique, which allows for a balanced selection between fuel amount, panel area and battery size. The conceptualization of the power system, the selection of appropriate solar panels and the sizing of the batteries are also discussed. Finally, the results of the conceptual design procedure are presented and appropriate conclusions are drawn.