
High-density, high-power modules enable lighter, safer, lower cost tether cables to extend missions
This class of unmanned vehicle is powered and controlled via a tether from a ground-based power source assisting in extended missions
Case study: Surveillance UAVs
Effective surveillance requires uninterrupted sensing and communication to ensure the safety and security of valued property, equipment, and assets. UAVs are used to surveille wide areas that may be hard to reach or when those spaces are not in a fixed location. The best surveillance UAVs stay in the air for as long as possible and are equipped with high-resolution cameras, thermal imaging sensors and communication links. The key goals were:
A surveillance drone must maximize productivity while also being able to carry high-performance cameras and sensors. Vicor high-density power modules support all these power-hungry functions without adding unnecessary size and weight to the UAV, extending flight time allowing for more functionality.
DCM best-in-class power density
High efficiency extends flight time
Keeps backup battery charged
Power dense Vicor DCM™ DC-DC converter modules are ideal for surveillance UAVs. They convert the 48V battery to a manageable voltage that can be matched to the UAV system loads using compact Zero-Voltage Switching (ZVS) Buck and Buck-Boost regulators. The DCM converter modules can also keep the UAV backup battery charged to ensure safety through redundancy.
High-density, high-power modules enable lighter, safer, lower cost tether cables to extend missions
This class of unmanned vehicle is powered and controlled via a tether from a ground-based power source assisting in extended missions
High-efficiency, high-density modules free up space for advanced communications and extend range
High-efficiency class of UAV depend on solar power to meet its long flight time requirements
DCM DC-DC converters double the internal bus power and help keep the aircraft as light as possible
High-altitude long-endurance (HALE) UAVs are essentially flying satellites, designed to operate at extremely high altitudes for extended periods
Extend flight times and support high-performance surveillance equipment to ensure safety and security
Effective surveillance requires uninterrupted sensing and communication to ensure the safety and security of valued property, equipment, and assets