Title :
Simulation, design and validation of a UAV SOFC propulsion system
Author :
Lindahl, Peter ; Moog, Eric ; Shaw, Steven R.
Author_Institution :
Electr. & Comput. Eng. Dept., Montana State Univ., Bozeman, MT
Abstract :
This paper provides a physically-based model for design and optimization of a fuel cell powered electric propulsion system for an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). Components of the system include a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) providing power, motor controller, Brushless DC (BLDC) motor, and a propeller. The simulation allows an operator to select constraints and explore design trade-offs between components, including fuel cell, controller, motor and propeller options. We also present a graphical procedure using this model that allows rapid assessment and selection of design choices, including fuel cell characteristics and hybridization with multiple sources. A series of tests conducted on an instrumented propulsion system in a low-speed wind tunnel reveal good correlation to the simulated results and validate the simulation model and design techniques.
Keywords :
aerospace propulsion; brushless DC motors; electric propulsion; remotely operated vehicles; solid oxide fuel cells; UAV SOFC propulsion system; brushless DC motor; fuel cell powered electric propulsion system; motor controller; propeller; solid oxide fuel cell; unmanned aerial vehicle; Brushless DC motors; Brushless motors; DC motors; Design optimization; Fuel cells; Power system modeling; Propellers; Propulsion; Solids; Unmanned aerial vehicles;
Conference_Titel :
Aerospace conference, 2009 IEEE
Conference_Location :
Big Sky, MT
Print_ISBN :
978-1-4244-2621-8
Electronic_ISBN :
978-1-4244-2622-5
DOI :
10.1109/AERO.2009.4839597
