Utilizing Three-Phase AC-DC Power Supplies in Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Unmanned aerial systems (UAS) consist of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and a controller and data system that allows operators or programs to control the vehicle. UAS units come in a wide variety of electronic and electromechanical options that can be autonomous, remotely piloted, or both.
Electronic UAS units give military and defense organizations control during potentially hazardous missions. Unmanned vehicles are safer, can be programmed with routine instructions or operational parameters, and allow remote operations with a significantly reduced risk of error or communication delays. This blog post will discuss the benefits of unmanned aircraft systems in different applications and how Aegis Power Systems can help with power conversion for such units.
Benefits of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)
Unmanned aircraft systems offer many benefits over traditional manned aircraft vehicles and systems in certain applications. Some of the key advantages include:
Safety
The safety benefits offered by UAS units are perhaps the most prominent and impactful. Unmanned aircraft don’t need pilots or servicemen on board, which significantly reduces the risk of fatalities during dangerous operations. Shifting from manned vehicles to UAS has enormous potential to save lives.
Efficiency
Autonomous technologies provide better efficiency than manually operated technologies because they can operate long hours without breaks or any loss in concentration. Remote operators or program managers can oversee the UAS from a local base without extensive travel or with changing shifts. Even the construction of the vehicles themselves is often more efficient, as they don’t need to be built to accommodate operators or passengers.
Search and Rescue Applications
While people might first picture unmanned aerial vehicles in offensive military operations, the units are extremely versatile and can be used in a wide range of applications. For example, they have become popular for search and rescue operations, as UAS units can quickly and comprehensively scan areas to look for lost personnel or equipment in remote locations.
Ability to Perform in Adverse Environments
Properly equipped UAS units have the technology to monitor and move through dark areas, in environments with extremely high or low temperatures, and in areas that are potentially hazardous to humans.
Different Uses of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)
Unmanned aircraft systems can and do play an important role in government operations. Some of the most common government uses of unmanned aircraft systems include:
- Creating geo-referenced maps from thousands of aerial photos
- Delivering emergency and medical supplies
- Providing search and surveillance functions during floods and natural disasters
- Military operations
- Reconnaissance missions
- Remote tracking
UAS units can also be used in numerous commercial applications, such as consumer delivery, photography, insurance-related appraisal and assessment tasks, and more. As UAS units continue to diversify in size and capabilities, the applications across military, governmental, and industrial sectors will continue to grow in number.
Using Three-Phase AC-DC Power Supplies in Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Electrical power supplies are an integral component of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). The design and construction of a power supply (e.g., weight, operating temperature, efficiency, etc.) can significantly influence how the system operates and performs (e.g., flight duration, payload capacity, flight range, etc.). That’s why it is essential to choose UAS power supplies carefully.
Systems engineers may find that three-phase power supplies offer many advantages over single-phase power supplies, such as:
- Fewer wires required for greater power capacity
- Higher efficiency
- Cleaner waveforms
These qualities make 3-Ph AC-DC power supplies ideal for use in unmanned aircraft systems. Fewer wires, greater power capacity, and higher efficiency mean that the UAS can be lighter and smaller, which makes it more capable, flexible, and portable. Cleaner AC waveforms ensures the UAS can maintain stable operation, which makes it more reliable.
Three-Phase AC-DC Power Supplies at Aegis Power Systems, Inc.
Unmanned aircraft systems offer government and military organizations more flexibility and safety in the completion of diverse, difficult, and dangerous missions. Many of them utilize three-phase AC-DC power supplies to support their operations. These components—also referred to as rectifiers—can carry higher loads than single-phase power supplies, making them well-suited for applications that require outputs of more than 1,000 watts.
Looking for quality power supplies for your unmanned aircraft systems? Turn to the experts at Aegis Power Systems! We supply three-phase AC-DC power supplies with high power output levels, operating frequencies of 60Hz or 400Hz, smart monitoring technologies, and various other features. Suggested product offerings for UAV systems include:
At Aegis Power Systems, we specialize in creating high-performance power supplies for demanding applications. Contact us today to see how our products and capabilities can support your unmanned aircraft system.