Optimum electric cable selection for kite-like unmanned aerial vehicle

A kite-like unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is leashed by a taut tether, which supplies electric power from the ground battery. Although working range is restricted, the flight time is extended significantly. Long endurance is a necessary condition for serious UAV missions. In this paper, a payload model of kite-like UAV is developed by measuring electrical and mechanical characteristics of the UAV´s propulsion unit. After investigating the model, there exits an optimum electric cable selection to achieve maximum payload capacity or highest flying altitude. Simulation results indicate the proper electric cable selection is crucial for kite-like UAV.