Modeling and Simulating the Photovoltaic System to Supply Electric Energy for a Two-Seater Plane with a 60 Kw Motor

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the emergence and achievements of solar aircraft in the aerospace industry and highlight the unexpected result of this trend. First, a brief history of solar aircraft is presented. Then, based on their characteristics, an aircraft suitable for the desired objectives is selected. Subsequently, photovoltaic cells, functions, types, and how to choose the type of cells are discussed. What's more, the design of the power supply system of an electric aircraft through photovoltaic cells is discussed based on parameters such as battery type, flight duration, and weight of the aircraft with regard to the power of 20 kW supplied by a 20 kW brushless motor. We select the desired battery by evaluating the types of batteries regarding weight, dimensions, and expected power, except for the power obtained from photovoltaic cells. Then, the types of inverters and how to choose the desired inverter are discussed based on the operation of the aircraft and voltage drop and rise. Finally, by simulating this plane in MATLAB and evaluating the expected results of the plane regarding the flight duration, maximum load bearing, and dimensions of the plane, we reach the desired design.