Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Commercially available micro- and nanotechnology in the form of two micropro-
cessors, stamp-size 433-megahertz command receivers, and 2.4 gigahertz data
transmitters, two-axis magnetic attitude sensors, MEMS pressure sensors, and a
piezoelectric rate gyro make the avionics suite for this 6-inch MAV possible. Figure
6-2-2 shows the relative sizes and masses of these systems with respect to the
airframe. Primary mass drivers are the batteries, the electric motor, and the power
and propulsion system. Primary power loads are the electric motor (about 5 watts)
and the video transmitter (0.55 watts). Microturbojets with ~10 grams of thrust
would offer at least an order-of-magnitude increase in flight time from the current
limit of ~30 minutes.
FIGURE 6-2-2 Subsystem layout, size, and mass of the Black Widow. SOURCE:
Wilson, S.B. 2000. Palm Power Workshop for Micro Air Vehicles, November 15.
Available online at <http://www.darpa.mil/dso/thrust/md/palmpower/presentations/
wilson_part1.pdf> [April 8, 2002].
mass of a system-level solution implies a dramatically reduced logistics tail. Low
cost might be traded for area coverage (by using more vehicles) or operation in
very high risk environments. Large numbers flying under the tree canopy or
perching in cities may be one solution to finding hidden targets.
MEMS-Based Active Aerodynamic Flight Control (Medium to Long Term)
Microsensing and control of airflow over vehicle surfaces, combined with
new ultrastrong, lightweight materials, could lead to a new generation of aircraft
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