Long-Endurance Power Systems for Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are one of the most valuable emerging technologies used to improve the survivability and lethality of our Armed Forces. Current advances in the alternative energy industry have created interest in integrating new technologies into small UAVs. This integration would significantly improve the versatility and endurance of small UAVs. Adaptive Materials Inc. (AMI) is an industry leader in the development of portable Solid Oxide Fuels Cells (SOFC). A hybridized UAV power solution can utilize the significant energy density advantage SOFC has over other alternative energy technologies. AMI has conducted initial investigations into the integration of SOFC systems in a UAV platform. In this proposal we describe the benefits of a SOFC propulsion system, and propose a 9 month effort to integrate this system with an advanced UAV platform. This aircraft will be capable of a 6 hour mission with a 2 pound payload or a 12 hour mission with a 1 pound payload, a significant increase over current technologies.