News

27 May 2009

 

Ascent’s CIGS PV modules to be designed into development of hybrid UAV

Ascent Solar Technologies Inc of Thornton, CO, USA (just north of Denver) says that its flexible thin-film copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS) photovoltaic modules are to be designed into the development of a hybrid unmanned aerial vehicle (H-UAV) called the Silent Sentinel developed by Bye Aerospace Inc (which was founded in 2007 and is based near Denver). The H-UAV will be designed primarily for military use. However, its capabilities will also include a broad spectrum of civil applications.

The first-of-its-kind hybrid uses stored electric power, thin-film PVs and other technologies to enhance its endurance, quiet operations and low emissions.  Bye Aerospace signed a memorandum of understanding with Ascent Solar in late April to develop the solar energy capability on the aircraft. For primary propulsion, the hybrid UAV will be coupled with an advanced Williams International FJ33 turbofan engine, which should enable a remarkable climb rate and high-altitude quick access to areas requiring surveillance.

The Silent Sentinel is a robust, long-range UAV that will incorporate several proprietary clean energy features, says Bye Aerospace’s chief operating officer Charlie Johnson. “Ultimately, it will provide advanced tactical reconnaissance functionality while utilizing a uniquely long-endurance, highly capable tactical sensor platform that is operationally stealthy and cost-effective to operate,” he adds. “The unique characteristics of the Ascent Solar flexible modules allow us to design this UAV to become very energy efficient,” Johnson concludes.

“Our flexible, monolithically integrated CIGS PV technology offers the ideal combination of low weight, higher voltage, and high performance that makes it ideal for applications such as the Silent Sentinel,” claims Ascent Solar’s chief technical officer Dr Joseph Armstrong.

Potential military applications include border patrol, search and rescue, visual and thermal reconnaissance, and forward air control. In addition, potential civil applications include traffic control, pipeline and power line inspection, aerial law enforcement, forest fire detection and aerial photography. Initial meetings are being conducted with US Government entities regarding the capabilities of the aircraft.  More are planned in the near term.

CIGS PV products to support Bye Aerospace will be manufactured at Ascent Solar’s existing 1.5MW production line at its former headquarters in Littleton, CO. The firm is currently equipping a new 30MW plant at its new headquarters in Thornton, which is due to start production late this year.

See related item:

CIGS PV maker Ascent signs memorandum of understanding with Bye Aerospace

Search: Ascent Solar CIGS thin-film PV modules

Visit: www.ascentsolar.com

Visit: www.ByeAerospace.com