Long-range UAV hybrid petrol-electric powertrain

Abstract

Along with increasing UAV both weight load and endurance requirements, there is a need to use alternative propulsion solutions, to satisfy the market as well as various customer applications. Although lithium polymer cells are yet well developed, they are still too heavy for long-endurance UAV missions. Hybrid petrol-electric powertrains are outstanding imitations of hybrid hydrogen-electric propulsion systems, which are currently under intensive development. Not only for their onboard power production and improved overall efficiency but also for simulating a weight load of a future hydrogen-electric system. Therefore, such a system is being tested and aimed to be used in fixed-wing UAVs for long-endurance missions. This paper describes the design and operation of a hybrid petrol-electric propulsion system and further operational optimization based on comprehensive ground testing.