Conceptual design of solar-powered UAVs based on variable altitude flight path
Year: 2025
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: Aiming at the problems of the conventional design method is not applicable and multiple coupling factors in the conceptual parameter of solar-powered unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), this paper proposes an overall parameters design method using an algorithm. Firstly, according to the energy principles of solar-powered UAVs, the multi-disciplinary parameter models were established. This model incorporates the study of motion conditions and power required calculations for various parts of the flight profile which are based on the principle of variable altitude flight path. Secondly, minimizing the weight and wing loading of the solar-powered UAV is the design objective. Based on the lift-to-weight ratio balance, thrust-to-drag ratio balance, and energy balance relationships within the flight profile, an analysis of the influencing factors on the conceptual parameters is conducted. Finally, optimization design is performed using the algorithm to obtain the preliminary conceptual parameter.
Authors: Gengjia Zhao, Yaping Li, Fayou Yang, Xin Cao
Language: English
Subfield: Aerospace Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4408613319