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Solar UAV

Posted by Michal Rus on February 20, 2013 at 5:03pm

Hello,

I'd like to build 2 concepts of solar powered fixed wing UAVs. I'm looking for people who are experienced in UAV construction and electronics, including control and communication over large distances. I'd be happy to use Ardupilot APM, dronecell with GPRS/3G and Android phonedrone board for the start and test the limits. I want to beat Silent Falcon and their products with cheaper price and better parameters.

1. concept

Competition - http://www.silentfalconuas.com/Silent-Falcon.html

- payload 2-3 kg

- endurance 6-8 h

- range 50-100 km

2. concept

Competition - http://www.silentfalconuas.com/Silent-Falcon--Heavy-Payload--SFHP--.html

- payload 20-30 kg

- endurance 8-24 h

- range 100 - 1000 km

If you are interested, please contact me. In this phase I'm looking for possible frame calculations and design including some visuals to get potential investors excited. It's not a hobby project, it's meant for commercial use. So far it seems that flying wing design would be the best. I need low noise/vibrations, high stability in winds. I can send more specifications and concept ideas later.

Thanks

Michal

Slovakia

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Replies

  • Andrew Little February 27, 2013 at 6:10pm

    Honestly I would take Silent Falcon's numbers with a grain of salt. Just by applying some basic aerodynamic calculations and propeller calculations I don't think they can even hit those numbers. Plus the solar cell company they have partnered with does not have the most efficient cell on the market.

    Also have you noticed that there isn't a video or actual picture of it flying on their website?

  • Tim McPherson February 20, 2013 at 6:14pm

    I admire your ambitious goals.

    Good luck with the electric 6+ hour flights, even with PV solar.

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