High-efficiency, high-density modules free up space for advanced communications and extend range
High-efficiency class of UAV depend on solar power to meet its long flight time requirements
Aircraft gets an 11kW power supply the size of a tablet computer
Case study: Fixed-winged HALE UAV
Improved telemetry needed twice the power in the same space
Improved telemetry needed twice the power in the same space
An upgrade to a high-altitude long endurance (HALE) UAV platform included fitting a new, higher-resolution, longer-range radar and improving the telemetry. The upgrade effectively doubled the power required on the 28V internal bus to 11kW. Onboard power was from two separate power sources for redundancy. The key goals were to:
- Double the power without allocating more space for the power supply
- Keep aircraft as light as possible for longer flight times
- Improve reliability and adapt to power needs in the future
High-density solution doubling the power for new functions and future needs
High-density solution doubling the power for new functions and future needs
The small size, low profile and low weight of the Vicor DCM DC-DC converters, module enabled the supply output power to be doubled without exceeding allocated space constraints. The high efficiency (96%) reduced the size of the heat sink required, saving more space. Key benefits were:
- 11kW solution in the size of a tablet computer weighing only 215g
- DCMs easy to parallel for redundancy and future increased power needs
- Low waste heat of DCM converter reducing cooling requirements, saving further space and weight
DCM DC-DC converters provided the power needed without increasing the size or weight
Three arrays of three 1.3kW DCM5614 VIA converters were paralleled to provide the regulated 28V bus. Inputs were split between two different generators to provide redundancy of power source. The arrays automatically power shared across all nine converters —though their input voltages differed — helping improve system reliability. To analyze this power chain, go to Vicor Whiteboard online tool.
The power delivery network
絶縁 レギュレータ
入力電圧: 28, 30, 270V
出力電圧: 3.3, 5, 12, 15, 24, 28, 48V
出力電力: 最大1300W
ピーク効率: 96%
0.98 x 0.90 x 0.28in 他
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High-density, high-power modules enable lighter, safer, lower cost tether cables to extend missions
This class of unmanned vehicle is powered and controlled via a tether from a ground-based power source assisting in extended missions
DCM DC-DC converters double the internal bus power and help keep the aircraft as light as possible
High-altitude long-endurance (HALE) UAVs are essentially flying satellites, designed to operate at extremely high altitudes for extended periods
Extending delivery missions and saving space for greater payloads
Delivery UAVs must safely and securely deliver goods to their intended recipients wherever they are located