MODELING OF THE AQUA-QUAD SOLAR POWER GENERATION SYSTEM
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Authors
Lim, Gabriel G.
Subjects
solar power generation
energy optimization
Aqua-Quad
energy optimization
Aqua-Quad
Advisors
Jones, Kevin D.
Dobrokhodov, Vladimir N.
Date of Issue
2020-12
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
The Aqua-Quad is a solar-powered hybrid autonomous vehicle being developed by the United States Naval Postgraduate School for surface and underwater reconnaissance. The vehicle rides on ocean currents and flies in the air to relocate. A realistic model of the Aqua-Quad’s solar power generation system was developed to predict the electrical energy generated given its geographic location and charging duration. This model can be employed within a lab environment for development work or integrated into the Aqua-Quad’s logic for operational use. Variables affecting solar power generation, such as geographic location and time of day and year, solar array tilt due to sea state, and degradation of the solar array efficiency were considered. Efficiencies of the solar power generation system and electrical components were also characterized through experiments and incorporated into the model to account for actual field performance. With a solar power generation model, the systematic development of the Aqua-Quad can be optimized, the cost function of the mission planning algorithm can be determined, the feasible mission envelope can be realistically evaluated, and mission execution can be made energy optimal.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (MAE)
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funding
Format
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release. distribution is unlimited
Rights
Copyright is reserved by the copyright owner.