The NederDrone

A hybrid lift, hybrid energy hydrogen UAV

Journal article (2021)
Copyright: © 2021 C. de Wagter, B.D.W. Remes, E.J.J. Smeur, F. van Tienen, Rick Ruisink, K.G. van Hecke, E. van der Horst
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijhydene.2021.02.053
Hydrogen Tail-sitter Hybrid unmanned air vehicle Maritime unmanned air vehicles Polymer electrolyte membrane fuel-cell Pressure cylinder
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Published Date

2021

Language

English

Abstract

Many Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) applications require vertical take-off and landing and very long-range capabilities. Fixed-wing aircraft need long runways to land, and electric energy is still a bottleneck for helicopters, which are not range efficient. In this paper, we introduce the NederDrone, a hybrid lift, hybrid energy hydrogen-powered UAV that can perform vertical take-off and landings using its 12 propellers while flying efficiently in forward flight thanks to its fixed wings. The energy is supplied from a combination of hydrogen-driven Polymer Electrolyte Membrane fuel-cells for endurance and lithium batteries for high-power situations. The hydrogen is stored in a pressurized cylinder around which the UAV is optimized. This work analyses the selection of the concept, the implemented safety elements, the electronics and flight control and shows flight data including a 3h38 flight at sea while starting and landing from a small moving ship.