Is It Possible to Design a Solar-Powered Helicopter?

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on the feasibility of designing a solar-powered helicopter. Participants conclude that the power requirements for traditional helicopters, such as the Blackhawk, exceed the capabilities of current solar panel technology, which cannot generate sufficient energy for lift. Suggestions include exploring lightweight materials like carbon fiber and using solar power for auxiliary systems rather than primary propulsion. Ultimately, the consensus is that while a solar-powered helicopter is improbable with existing technology, redesigning a helicopter from the ground up may yield possibilities for future exploration.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of helicopter power requirements, specifically 1,000 to 1,500 shaft horsepower for lift.
  • Knowledge of solar panel energy output, typically measured in watt/m².
  • Familiarity with lightweight materials such as carbon fiber and aluminum in aerospace design.
  • Basic principles of aerodynamics and how solar panels affect flight dynamics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the power requirements of various helicopter models, focusing on the Blackhawk and Apache.
  • Investigate advancements in solar panel technology, particularly energy density improvements.
  • Explore the use of alternative fuels and their efficiency in helicopter engines.
  • Study the design principles of UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) that utilize solar power.
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace engineers, environmental scientists, students in aviation technology, and anyone interested in sustainable aviation solutions.

  • #31
russ_watters said:
Airplanes have a lot more surface area than helicopters. Apachee, try to think about where you would even put solar panels on a helicopter: by their very nature, they don't have a lot of horizontal surfaces except for the rotor.

If there is still time, you may want to consider looking for a different project.

more about weight than it's about surface area
 
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  • #32
jgeating said:
more about weight than it's about surface area

The more surface area the more room for panels. You can have the lightest aircraft going, but it's the surface area available for panels that matters.
Sum1 said:
Sorry, it can be done and it will (with current panels) - a properly designed one. Just wait and you'll see.

You're joking right?

'Current panels' installed locally provide 2.6kW on a perfect day and take up 8m2 weighing ~500kg.

Good luck getting a helicopter to work with those 'current panels'.

Utilising ground effect can hardly be considered a helicopter.
 

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