Energy harvesting concepts for small electric unmanned systems

Muhammad A. Qidwai; James P. Thomas; James C. Kellogg; Jared N. Baucom

doi:10.1117/12.540912

21 July 2004 Energy harvesting concepts for small electric unmanned systems

Muhammad A. Qidwai, James P. Thomas, James C. Kellogg, Jared N. Baucom

Proceedings Volume 5387, Smart Structures and Materials 2004: Active Materials: Behavior and Mechanics; (2004) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.540912
Event: Smart Structures and Materials, 2004, San Diego, CA, United States

Abstract

In this study, we identify and survey energy harvesting technologies for small electrically powered unmanned systems designed for long-term (>1 day) time-on-station missions. An environmental energy harvesting scheme will provide long-term, energy additions to the on-board energy source. We have identified four technologies that cover a broad array of available energy sources: solar, kinetic (wind) flow, autophagous structure-power (both combustible and metal air-battery systems) and electromagnetic (EM) energy scavenging. We present existing conceptual designs, critical system components, performance, constraints and state-of-readiness for each technology. We have concluded that the solar and autophagous technologies are relatively matured for small-scale applications and are capable of moderate power output levels (>1 W). We have identified key components and possible multifunctionalities in each technology. The kinetic flow and EM energy scavenging technologies will require more in-depth study before they can be considered for implementation. We have also realized that all of the harvesting systems require design and integration of various electrical, mechanical and chemical components, which will require modeling and optimization using hybrid mechatronics-circuit simulation tools. This study provides a starting point for detailed investigation into the proposed technologies for unmanned system applications under current development.

Citation Download Citation

Muhammad A. Qidwai, James P. Thomas, James C. Kellogg, and Jared N. Baucom "Energy harvesting concepts for small electric unmanned systems", Proc. SPIE 5387, Smart Structures and Materials 2004: Active Materials: Behavior and Mechanics, (21 July 2004); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.540912

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