Hybrid Power May Encrease UAV Endurance

What is it about?

Internal combustion engines provide high endurance for small unmanned aircraft, but they are very loud. Batteries provide quiet operation, which is important to surveillance missions, but they have limited endurance. A hybrid system may be capable of providing the benefits of both power sources.

Featured Image

Why is it important?

The article examines the power and efficiency of a hybrid power system for small unmanned vehicles. Individual components are examined for their contributions to the overall system efficiency, and calculate the expected performance of an unmanned vehicle with the hybrid system installed as tested. Calculations show that the system tested has the potential to increase small unmanned aerial vehicle endurance by up to 150%. Several potential areas for improvement in the system are identified.