A Review of Alternative Electrical Power Distribution Methods for Future Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

Document Number: 2008-01-2925

Date Published: November 2008

Author(s):
Patrick Norman - Univ. of Strathclyde
Campbell Booth - Univ. of Strathclyde
Stuart Galloway - Univ. of Strathclyde
Graeme Burt - Univ. of Strathclyde
James McDonald - Univ. of Strathclyde
Ian Elders - Univ. of Strathclyde

Abstract:
Increasingly complex and challenging mission requirements for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) may in the future place demands on the vehicle electrical system. Direct current and high-frequency alternating current have been proposed as alternatives to conventional AC approaches in manned aircraft which may contribute to meeting these requirements. The paper reviews the advantages and disadvantages a number of power distribution options across a range of metrics likely to be of interest to UAV designers and operators including factors such as weight, fault management and electrical losses. Important technical challenges in the application of these technologies are identified.

File Size: 164K
Product Status: In Stock

See other papers presented at Power Systems Conference, November 2008, Seattle, WA, USA, Session: Power Generation for Aerospace Applications

Purchase more technical papers and save! With TechSelect, you decide what SAE Technical Papers you need, when you need them, and how much you want to pay. Learn more >