Effect of wind on quadrotor battery consumption

Abstract

Purpose The advancements in battery technologies, while trailing behind technological progress, face challenges meeting the soaring energy demands of quadrotors, resulting in flight durations that are far from satisfactory. Hence, this study aims to empirically investigate the impact of wind on battery consumption. Design/methodology/approach Flight tests were conducted using the Pixhawk 4 along identical flight paths and durations. In these flight tests, the quadrotor was exposed to different wind speeds. Findings The amount of energy consumed in the flight tests was examined. It has been observed that wind poses a serious threat to battery consumption and thus flight safety. Practical implications It is predicted that the data obtained from these studies will be useful in the battery and route selection of quadrotors used in many areas in the future. Originality/value This experimental investigation involved conducting numerous flight trials at diverse wind speeds under genuine atmospheric conditions. The energy consumption data acquired holds significance as it directly mirrors real-world scenarios encountered in practical applications.