Abstract

There has been a substantial increase in the use of electric propulsion systems in Unmannned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). However, this area of engineering has lacked the benefits of a dynamic model that could be used to optimize the design. configurations and flight profiles. The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) has accurate models for the aerodynamics associated with UAVs. Therefore the proposed electric propulsion model would use the torque and RPM requirements generated by the aerodynamic model and provide an accurate representation of the desired UAV electric propulsion system. This thesis reports on the development of such a model. The model is adaptive in the sense that motor and battery parameters can be altered by the user to reflect systems currently in use or those considered for future systems. Not only will the simulation model accurately reflect the operating conditions of the motor and battery during the mission, but different flight profiles with the same configuration can be evaluated in terms of efficiency based on the Percent Battery Capacity Used (PBCU) at the end of the mission. This Electric Propulsion Simulator is part of a larger NRL project intended to design and deliver UAVs to the Naval Service over the next few years http://archive.org/details/computersimulati00your Major, United States Marine Corps Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Abstract

Hybrid electric ship propulsions are becoming a leading/emerging area of research, prompting investigation in hybrid propulsion system design and demonstration of concept vessels. With respect to ship design and operation, minimizing costs associated with fuel consumption and maintenance are key objectives. As such, new, and existing, ships are subject to regulatory requirements, especially regarding emissions and energy efficiency. Hybrid electric propulsion is a promising approach in addressing these concerns. Particularly for inland vessels that require a high degree of manoeuvrability and are continuously travelling upstream and downstream. In this work, a Permanent Magnet propulsion motor with 350kW at 300rpm, hence around 11,000Nm, will be discussed. With this motor a quiet mode is available with reduced emission during electric cruising and dynamic positioning.