Aerospace

First Ground Test of Aero Solar Wing Successful

10 November 2017

Bye Aerospace StratoAirNet with integrated wings populated with SolAero Solar Cells. Source: SolAeroBye Aerospace StratoAirNet with integrated wings populated with SolAero Solar Cells. Source: SolAero

SolAero Technologies Corp. has announced the successful completion of ground testing of integrated solar wings on Bye Aerospace’s medium-altitude, long-endurance, solar-electrical unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) called “StratoAirNet.” SolAero successfully integrated lightweight, flexible solar modules incorporating their state-of-the-art, high-efficiency solar cell technology onto the wing structure, which was manufactured by Bye. It minimizes add-on mass and preserves the critical laminar flow surface of the wing.

StratoAirNet is a lightweight, carbon composite construction, aerodynamically efficient aircraft. The solar-electric UAV has a payload capacity of up to 70 lbs, enabling substantial capability with multiple sensors at altitudes of up to 35,000 feet.

The initial StratoAirNet 15 prototype (with a 15-meter wing) can be optionally piloted to enable rapid qualification of consumer payloads without FAA airspace restrictions that can slow UAV payload development and deployment. With a test pilot in the prototype aircraft, solar, battery and propulsion system maturity, preliminary flight performance evaluation and auto flight control optimization is accomplished at a faster pace, with greatly reduced risk.

To learn more about this ground testing, visit SolAero Technologies.



Powered by CR4, the Engineering Community

Discussion – 0 comments

By posting a comment you confirm that you have read and accept our Posting Rules and Terms of Use.
Engineering Newsletter Signup
Get the GlobalSpec
Stay up to date on:
Features the top stories, latest news, charts, insights and more on the end-to-end electronics value chain.
Advertisement
Weekly Newsletter
Get news, research, and analysis
on the Electronics industry in your
inbox every week - for FREE
Sign up for our FREE eNewsletter
Advertisement