Chinese scientists from Xi'an University, in collaboration with military engineers, have developed an innovative system capable of keeping drones airborne for extended periods. The system uses microwave radiation directed at the antennas of a moving UAV.
Despite initial challenges with energy transfer efficiency, the key breakthrough was achieving precise beam guidance using GPS. This success could be a game-changer in the field of continuous aerial reconnaissance.
Features of Microwave Recharging
The main problem with modern drones is the limited capacity of lithium-ion batteries, which means they often have to return to base for replacement. This reduces mission duration and increases the risk of losing equipment in enemy territory.
The latest Chinese solution offers a mobile ground station that generates microwave pulses to recharge drones. A specialized vehicle complex transmits these pulses to receivers located on the drone. Thanks to advanced flight controllers and precise satellite positioning, the developers have managed to synchronize the navigation systems of the source and the target.
