Performance capabilities of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) may be significantly enhanced through the exploitation of wind energy. This paper summarizes the potential benefits and main characteristics of optimal UAV flights through two wind patterns: wind gradient and vertical thermals. In this paper, point-mass equations are used to represent UAV dynamic motions. UAV flights through wind field are formulated as nonlinear optimal control problems that minimize the fuel consumption over a certain period of time, subject to constraints arising out of performance bounds and operational limitations. Numerical solutions are obtained for a wide range of wind conditions and vehicle parameters. Results suggest that significant improvements in UAV performance capabilities are possible by taking advantage of wind energies.
Taking advantage of wind energy in UAV operations
2005
11 Seiten, 29 Quellen
Conference paper
English
Taking Advantage of Wind Energy in UAV Operations
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