Phys.org May 10, 209
Prior systems relied on batch estimation processes that require storing large arrays of data, which is not ideal for operation on small microcontrollers with limited memory resources. Researchers at Naval Research Laboratory working on the Autonomous Locator of Thermals (ALOFT) project have developed software that uses extended Kalman filtering software which detects and estimates the position of thermals helping orbit drones like the tiny CICADA glider or long-endurance solar-soaring UAVs that might also have photovoltaic or fuel cells feeding battery-powered propellers. UAVs don’t need large batteries because they harvest energy from the environment using intelligent software increasing the range and endurance of an aircraft without having to add additional fuel/batteries. The method is parameterized, therefore it can be quickly tailored to a variety of aircraft types…read more.
The Naval Research Laboratory is building solar-soaring drones that harvest energy from the sun and thermals to stay aloft for extended time periods. Credit: Naval Research Laboratory. Credit: The article