Operational Assessment of Alternative Fuels for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Abstract
This thesis explores alternative fuel options for unmanned systems in the Department of Defense (DOD). The use of traditional fuels in warfare has become a major concern for the department, prompting a search for alternative fuels that may improve operational performance by increasing the time on station for future systems. To address this challenge, this thesis selected hydrogen, methanol, and ethanol as potential alternative fuel candidates and conducted simulations. A simulation program called ExtendSim was used to conduct simulations and determine the operational availability of systems employing each fuel type. Operational availability is a crucial parameter and outcome in the choice of the best alternative fuel. The simulations were performed under various constraints, including tank weight and volume, launch decks, and refueling spots. The results showed that liquid hydrogen when constrained by the fuel weight of existing systems, had the highest operational availability. Use of hydrogen fuel showed a potential to increase operational availability from 0.74, using traditional propellants, to 0.92 using hydrogen fuel. The study also revealed the impact of the number of refilling spots and obstacles on the overall results, which means they affected the results and outcome of the operational availability. This research provides valuable insights into the development of alternative fuels for unmanned systems in the Department of Defense.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2023
- Accession Number
- AD1212966
Entities
People
- Seongjung Na
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School