Abstract:
Solar-powered unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with long endurance can be utilised for area surveillance as the regenerative nature of solar energy makes such UAVs a terrestrial satellite with 24/7 endurance. This paper presents an aerodynamic optimisation scheme for UAVs through the selection of airfoils and wing planform during the preliminary design phase. Sizing of the tail and control surface based on historical trends for similar aircraft is also substantiated. Finally, detailed aerodynamic and stability analyses of the optimised configuration validate adequate flying and handling qualities of UAVs. The optimisation effort increased the endurance factor by 19.75 percent. This increase will conserve the energy required to overcome in-flight drag and surplus power that can be utilised by onboard equipment.