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A prototype to improve endurance of solar powered aircraft using MPPT and rechargeable battery

  • Received : 2023.12.28
  • Accepted : 2024.04.26
  • Published : 2024.03.25
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Abstract

This paper addresses the enhancement of long-endurance solar-powered aircraft through the integration of a rechargeable battery and Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) controller. Traditional long-endurance aircraft often rely on non-renewable energy sourcessuch as batteries orjetfuel, contributing to carbon emissions. The proposed system aims to mitigate these environmental impacts by harnessing solar energy and efficiently managing its storage and utilization. The MPPT controller optimizes the power output of photovoltaic cells, enabling simultaneous charging and discharging of the battery for propulsion and servo control. A prototype is presented to illustrate the practical implementation and functionality of the proposed design, marking a promising step towards more sustainable and enduring solar-powered flight.

Keywords

Acknowledgement

The authors would like to express their gratitude towards Faculty of Engineering, Emirates Aviation University, Dubai for providing the necessary infrastructure to carry out this work successfully.

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