Microwave Energy Transmission for a Micro Aerial Vehicle by a Phased Array Anntena

Paper number

IAC-05-C3.3.07

Author

Mr. Hiroki Takayanagi, University of Tokyo, Japan

Coauthor

Prof. Yoshihiro Arakawa, University of Tokyo, Japan

Coauthor

Mr. Hiroyuki Koizumi, University of Tokyo, Japan

Coauthor

Dr. Kimiya Komurasaki, University of Tokyo, Japan

Coauthor

Mr. Yasuhisa Oda, University of Tokyo, Japan

Coauthor

Mr. Ryoji Ozawa, University of Tokyo, Japan

Year

2005

Abstract

In the University of Tokyo, a project for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle and Micro Aerial Vehicle, “Innovative Aerial Robot Project”, is carried out as part of the 21st century COE program, “Mechanical Systems Innovation”. In this project, microwave energy transmission for MAV by phased array antenna is considered.

The microwave phased array technology has been intensively developed for energy transmission in space, such as the transmission from a Space Solar Power Station to the ground. This technology will be applied in this project. Pointing of the microwave beams will be achieved by controlling the phase of element microwaves, not by mechanical control of the antennas’ attitude. 
A MAV will fly in circles. Tracking of the flying object, MAV would be challenging. Retro-directive function will help its quick and precise tracking. 

This paper describes the current status of system development for the microwave phased array. The project is initiated with the target power level of several watts. The spatial power profile will be measured using this system and compared with the numerical simulation. This simulation well agrees with the experimental result in steering angle, main-/ side-lobe intensity ratio and beam spot size. So this code will help in optimizing antenna arrangement.
 
In the final stage of the project, flight demonstration will be inevitable.

Abstract document

IAC-05-C3.3.07.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-05-C3.3.07.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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