our Deliverable

Needs Assesment:Batteries are usually an afterthought in technology and robotics. Engineers and scientists make a design, then determine the power needs, and finally just attach a battery. The system is not usually designed with the battery shape in mind. But, as technology advances, there is a demand for lightweight, high powered devices. As these systems are designed, there is not always physical space for a battery. This justifies the need for a conformable battery.

Problem Statement:The main objective of this project is to design a battery that can be integrated in to the wing of a UAV system. The battery can form around the wing, make up the wing, or fit inside the wing. The focus is that the battery be conformable (not cylindrical or flat rectangular). The goal will be to fly this plane for at least five minutes. The ideal battery design will be a easily deformed, lightweight battery. The success of this project would signify a milestone in battery technology and could give rise to new products.

Justification/Background:The term battery was first used by Benjamin Franklin in 1749. He connected glass capacitors that he used in his experiments with electricity. A true battery wasn’t created until later by Alessandro Volta. In 1798, Volta built a “Voltaic pile” or the first real battery. He stacked copper zinc plates separated with cardboard disks saturated with an electrolyte (acid solution). The voltage across this stack was 1.1v. Thankfully, battery technology has come a far way in materials and in size. Today, Nickel-Cadmium, Nickel metal hydride, and Lithium batteries are used. Lithium is the metal with the highest electrochemical potential and lowest density. In terms of energy-to-weight it is the best. G.N Lewis started experimenting with Lithium batteries in 1912. But, it wasn’t until the 1990’s when they became popular. As consumer technology increases, so do battery demands. Today, Lithium batteries are used in many products because of their performance. Typically, Lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries are use for RC planes. They are lighter and have a better energy density compared to other types of batteries. There will need to be two batteries since they will be integrated into the wings. This will balance the UAV system for flight. Normally an RC plane has just one battery, so the power will need to be split between the two. LiPo batteries are comprised of cells. The nominal voltage from a single cell is 3.7v. This is important for safety to make the correct battery with the correct n umber of cells for the plane. Fires and explosions can occur if the incorrect power is not being used. Figure 1 shows Time versus Voltage for various batteries. From that data, it can be seen that at least a 2S or 2-cells must be used. Figure 1 shows a typical 2 cell LiPo battery.

Objectives:
➢Build a battery that can be integrated into the wing of a UAV system
➢Utilize existing technology to stay under budget
➢Develop uniquely shaped battery or formable battery
➢Design must be safe for operator and should not explode or catch fire
➢The battery must satisfy the power need of the RC plane
➢Battery is to be detachable for charging

Methodology:
➢Research batteries technology and materials
➢Understand physical and chemical properties of batteries
➢Learn battery manufacture process
➢Comprehend physical and aerodynamic principles of RC planes
➢Theorize plan of action based off desired results

Project Constraints:
➢Project budget $2000
➢Limited research or experience available
➢Mass of each battery should not exceed 100 grams
➢RC plane should be able to fly outside under reasonable conditions
➢Battery must not explode or catch fire
➢Enough power must be supplied for at least a 5 minute flight without switching batteries or recharging
➢To be completed by Spring 2014

Abstract:
Three design concepts are being considered to make a shape conformable battery pack. Different plane types are explored because the battery must fit in the wing of an RC plane. Double-sided graphite coated copper foil sheets were selected for anodes. Aluminum foil coated with LiFePO4 sheets will be used for cathodes. The lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6) electrolyte will be used from the Aero-Propulsion, Mechatronics and Energy (AME) battery lab. The materials have been ordered. The first prototypes can be made after materials arrive. Two RC planes were ordered. One plane will serve to test and teach how to fly. The other will be the plane the batteries are modeled for. So far, the team has successfully built a test cell battery. The next step will to build a successful pouch battery, implement design concepts, and practice RC plane flying

Project Overview:
The main objective of this project is to design a battery that can be integrated into the wing of a UAV system. The battery can form around the wing, make up the wing, or fit inside the wing. The focus is that the battery be conformable (not cylindrical or flat rectangular). The goal will be to fly the plane for at least five minutes. A successful flight will be defined by takeoff, flight, and landing without crashing or loss of power. The ideal battery design will be easily deformed and lightweight. The success of this project could signify a milestone in battery technology and could give rise to new products.