Optimization of the solar energy storage capacity for a monitoring UAV

• Published in: Sustainable futures 2024-06, Vol.7, p.100146, Article 100146
• Main Authors: Salazar, Franklin, Martinez-Garcia, Maria Sofia, Castro, Angel de, Logroño, Nube, Cazorla-Logroño, Maria F., Guamán-Molina, Jesús, Gómez, Carlos
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Battery; Flight autonomy; PV System; Storage; UAV
• ISSN: 2666-1888; 2666-1888
• DOI: 10.1016/j.sftr.2023.100146

Unmanned aerial vehicles integrate propulsion systems, communication modules, and sensors, allowing an operator to perform autonomous or remote-controlled flight actions. UAVs provide important advantages for exploring remote locations due to their cost-effectiveness and versatility compared to manned aircraft. However, addressing safety and flight autonomy challenges remains necessary. This paper analyzes and proposes the integration of a photovoltaic solar system to power UAV devices. Through a brief analysis of the aerodynamic model and the wing profile, a consolidation of the solar cells has been achieved without compromising efficiency in-flight maneuvers. Furthermore, an analysis is conducted on the potential of using photovoltaic solar resources in fixed-wing aircraft. The research aims to determine the optimal wing surface area required for video surveillance applications. The current model under discussion is a glider-type system that incorporates two distinct systems, one for video transmission and the other for telemetry data acquisition. An analysis of the battery charge and discharge pattern was carried out using computer simulation tools. This analysis aimed to optimize the battery charging process by integrating photovoltaic cells. The results and conclusions of the tests are described in the final section of the paper.