Abstract

Thermal management system is essential for efficient operation of Electro-optic payloads in UAVs as the optimal performance of many Electro-optic sensors(EO sensors) is assured only within a certain temperature range. Also, lower temperatures can induce condensation which causes image quality to deteriorate. The main motive of the design and optimisation of Thermal management system(TMS) is to maintain the temperature of the turret within the required temperature, thereby guaranteeing the performance of the optical sensors. TMS helps to ensure that the imaging device outputs a clear image, as it helps to compensate for the change in temperature of the environment. TMS consists of cooling or/and heating systems with the necessary controls, fans, heaters, thermostats and relays. Arriving at the configuration of these system within the constraints of power, volume and weight and to meet the requirement is a journey by itself from ideation to experimentation and testing.

Keywords

Electro-optic payload, UAV, MREO, ROC, IRA, thermostat, dew point temperature, thermal management, purging, etc.