Optimal sizing of solar powered unmanned aerial vehicle system for continuous flight based on multi objective genetic algorithm

This paper presents an optimal sizing method for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) which is aimed to fly continuously for 24 hours using only solar energy. Multi objective genetic algorithm is used to solve the optimum solution of the UAV’s wing area, cruise speed, drag, lift coefficient, and aspect ratio. Payload, solar panel characteristic, and flight location are taken into consideration. After the power balance of the model is analyzed, the result shows that the solar cell and battery are able to supply the energy required by the UAV for 24 hours under a certain irradiation level with a maximum payload of 3 kg. In addition, the effect of the irradiation level change, payload variation, and photovoltaic efficiency are also analyzed and shown in the result.