Conceptual Design of Fuel Cell Based Hybrid Unmanned Air Vehicle

Abstract

An unmanned air vehicle (UAV) is a non-human air vehicle controlled autonomously by plugged microprocessors or telemetrically by an operator on the ground [1]. UAVs have received great interest in the last decades with many different usage missions for military and civilian areas [2]. As a result of this interest, many countries and institutions are making significant investments in this field. UAV market value is expected to reach $52.30 billion by 2025 [3]. Recently interest in electric powered small UAVs has increased gradually because of its high efficiency, high reliability, low cost and reduced noise [4]. Considering issues such as insurance, license, maintenance, pilot license and flight permits, it is anticipated that small unmanned aerial vehicles will be used more in the future. Moreover, from a military point of view, it is known that the need for maneuverable UAVs of small sizes suitable for use in rugged terrain and residential areas is increasing. The primary problem encountered in small UAVs, especially in the field of imaging and intelligence, is the limit of the endurance and range. As the size of the air vehicle minimizes, the use of reciprocating and gas turbine engines becomes more difficult. On the other hand, battery systems using in electric UAVs cannot provide enough energy particularly in case of long endurance missions. Increa