Conceptual design of a hybrid (turbofan/solar) powered HALE UAV

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2016
Mermer, Erdinç
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The aim of the thesis is to design a HALE UAV using both turbofan engine and solar energy in order to obtain 24 hours endurance with 550 lb payload capacity and 30000 ft service ceiling. During daytime, required power is obtained from solar panels. However, excess solar energy is used for charging the lithium-ion battery. It is assumed that turbofan engine is used only for climbing to the required altitude. During loiter, only solar energy and battery power are used. The design methodology consists of two main parts. In the first part, typical conceptual design methodology is used. Weight analysis, wing loading and thrust loading, required power analysis, aircraft performance analysis are performed. While performing the conceptual design, aircraft is assumed as only turbofan-powered aircraft. Due to long wingspan and large wing area, typical structural weight determination techniques are not suitable for the HALE UAV. Therefore, a new structural weight prediction model is used. vi In the second part of the thesis, solar energy and battery energy are examined in order to assess whether endurance and service ceiling requirements are satisfied. Solar radiation model is used for verification. Also a simulink model is constructed for examining the flight duration. It is considered that propulsion system consists of one or two small turbofan engines and four electric powered engines with one propeller each. Solar panel efficiency is assumed as 30% and 40%, in order to show the effects of cell efficiencies on flight endurance. Finally, endurance of the aircraft is predicted for four different times of the year.
Drone aircraft., Flying-machines., Solar energy., Airplanes
http://etd.lib.metu.edu.tr/upload/12619948/index.pdf
https://hdl.handle.net/11511/25617
Graduate School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Thesis

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Citation Formats
E. Mermer, “Conceptual design of a hybrid (turbofan/solar) powered HALE UAV,” M.S. - Master of Science, Middle East Technical University, 2016.
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