Modeling and control of a fixed-wing UAV powered by solar energy: An electric array reconfiguration approach

In this paper the mathematical model of a fixed-wing UAV powered by solar energy is presented, the aim is to show the performance of a longitudinal control for this UAV, using successive loop closure. Also is presented a methodology for a photovoltaic (PV) array reconfiguration allowing the load to be matched and delivering the maximum power. The system model the longitudinal controller together with the PV reconfiguration methodology is validated using numerical simulations.