Solar energy collection flight path management system for aircraft

Abstract

A method and apparatus for managing solar power collection. A position of the sun is identified relative to an aerospace vehicle while the aerospace vehicle is moving along a flight path. A level of power generation is identified by a solar power generation system while the aerospace vehicle moves along the flight path using a threat management module and equivalent radar signature data. The threat management module uses the equivalent radar signature data to identify the level of power generation by the aerospace vehicle from different positions of the sun relative to the aerospace vehicle, and the equivalent radar signature data is based on solar power generation signature data identifying the level of power generation for the different positions of the sun relative to the aerospace vehicle. A change in the flight path that results in a desired level of power generation is identified by the solar power generation system.

Description

BACKGROUND INFORMATION[0001]1. Field[0002]The present disclosure relates generally to solar powered aircraft and, in particular, to managing a flight path or trajectory of the aircraft. Still more particularly, the present disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for managing flight paths for aircraft in a manner that increases generation of power from solar power collection systems on the aircraft.[0003]2. Background[0004]Unmanned aerial system (UAS) aircraft are powered aerial vehicles that do not carry a human operator. This type of aircraft typically is powered and may fly under its own control or under the control of a remote pilot. This type of aircraft is also referred to as an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).[0005]The unmanned aerial vehicle may take different forms. For example, the unmanned aerial vehicle may be in the form of an airplane, rotorcraft, and / or other suitable forms. An unmanned aerial vehicle may come in different sizes and may have different operating rang...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text describes a method, apparatus, and computer program for managing solar power collection on an aerospace vehicle while it moves along a flight path. The position of the sun is identified, and the level of power generation is determined using a threat management module and equivalent radar signature data. The threat management module identifies the level of power generation based on the radar signature data, which is based on solar power generation signature data. A change in the flight path that results in a desired level of power generation is identified, and the level of power generation is managed to ensure efficient solar power collection. This technology helps to optimize the use of solar power on aerospace vehicles for improved performance and reliability.

Problems solved by technology

For example, some unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) may fly at altitudes and distances that make retrieving and / or refueling the unmanned aerial vehicle for maintenance more difficult than desired to perform at its regular intervals.

This situation may result in higher costs and more coordination of unmanned aerial vehicles than desired.

Even with these systems, maneuvering the aircraft, weather, and other environmental conditions may result in the solar power generation system generating less power than desired.

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