DroneTeam Twente has the goal to accelerate drone innovation by building drones for emergency medical aid. Currently, drones are flying using one type of battery that delivers a specific type of power. However, when a drone takes off it needs more power than when it is flying through the air. The question for you is to design a system for a drone that can switch between two batteries during flight.
Background Information
DroneTeam Twente has the goal to accelerate drone innovation by building drones for emergency medical aid. With over 50 past and current student members from Twente, they have built three drones participating in the international iMechE UAS Challenge, where their drones perform a humanitarian aid mission. They also participate in many other unique projects, from drone education to improving drone safety. To keep innovating DroneTeam Twente decided to look into new technologies which can improve the durability of the drones.
Assignment Description
Currently, drones are flying using one type of battery that delivers a specific type of power. However, when a drone takes off it needs more power than when it is flying through the air. In addition, the battery with the higher power output weighs more and the energy usage is higher, whereas the battery for during flight delivers too little power but is more durable. It would be possible to use two different types of batteries for the two needed power outputs. However, that would mean that an interchangeable system needs to be designed which can switch during flight. Having a drone that can switch between batteries during the flight will save a lot of energy. The question for you is what the benefit would be to design a system for a drone that can switch between two batteries during flight. Which batteries should be used in the new design? Is a drone with two batteries during the flight feasible, looking at, for example, type drone, weight, airtime, etc.? What could be the successful combination and how can a prototype be developed?
Recommended Study Program
Industrial Design Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering
Are you following a different study program, but do you think you are suitable for the challenge? Do not hesitate to contact us!
Starting Date
As soon as possible