A Comprehensive Review of Micro UAV Charging Techniques

Area of Science:

• Robotics and Automation
• Electrical Engineering
• Wireless Power Transfer

Background:

• Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are increasingly vital for diverse applications, including delivery, inspection, and remote sensing.
• Limited battery endurance and charging time pose significant challenges to UAV operational efficiency and mission scope.
• Existing research has explored various aspects of wireless charging for UAVs, highlighting the need for advanced solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review emerging charging techniques for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).
• To address the limitations of current UAV battery technology and charging methods.
• To explore solutions for enhancing UAV operational range and mission duration through efficient power transfer.

Main Methods:

• Examination of various UAV charging techniques, including wired and wireless power transfer (WPT).
• Analysis of advanced wireless charging methods: laser power transfer (LPT), distributed laser charging (DLC), simultaneous wireless information and power transfer (SWIPT), and simultaneous light wave information and power transfer (SLIPT).
• Classification of UAV types and battery charging methodologies, alongside a discussion of operational challenges and safety solutions.

Main Results:

• Identified key emerging charging techniques like LPT, DLC, SWIPT, and SLIPT as promising solutions for UAV power limitations.
• Highlighted the critical role of WPT systems in overcoming battery capacity constraints for UAVs.
• Provided a comprehensive overview of UAV charging methods, challenges, and potential solutions for safe and efficient operation.

Conclusions:

• Advanced WPT techniques are crucial for enabling widespread adoption of UAVs in commercial and industrial sectors.
• Addressing UAV charging limitations through innovative methods like laser and simultaneous information/power transfer will enhance mission capabilities.
• Future research should focus on further developing and optimizing these charging technologies for robust and reliable UAV operations.