Integration of high-efficiency, lightweight solar sheets onto unmanned aerial vehicle for increased endurance
US9650148B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 18, 2016 |
| Grant date | May 16, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 18, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T90/12
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Some embodiments include a kit for supplying solar power in a battery-powered or fuel cell powered unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) by incorporating flexible solar cells into a component of a UAV, affixing flexible solar cells to a surface of a UAV, or affixing flexible solar cells to a surface of a component of a UAV. The kit also includes a power conditioning system configured to operate the solar cells within a desired power range and configured to provide power having a voltage compatible with an electrical system of the UAV. Another embodiments include a solar sheet configured for installation on a surface of a UAV or on a surface of a component of a UAV. The solar sheet includes a plurality of solar cells and a polymer layer to which the plurality of solar cells are attached.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.