Integration of Solar Panels in Aircraft: Evaluation of Energy Efficiency and Aerodynamic Performance

This study presents a case analysis involving the design and practical application of an aircraft featuring solar panel cells on its wings. The objective is to harness a portion of the energy required for flight from a renewable energy source, namely solar energy. The research evaluates the effectiveness of solar cells in an innovative aircraft design and assesses the aircraft’s flight performance under various speed conditions. The prototype aircraft is designed with a wingspan of 2.5 m, a length of 1.4 m, and a width of 0.5 m, utilizing a NACA 2412 airfoil. Aerodynamic tests conducted at different flight speeds (1, 5, 10, 13, and 20 m/s) measured aerodynamic forces, torque values, and the energy contribution from the solar panels. The results indicate that the solar panels provide 15% of the energy required for flight, with a maximum lift force of 10.68 N achieved at 20 m/s. As flight speed increases, both drag and lift forces rise, with the rate of increase in drag being 25% lower than that of lift at speeds above 10 m/s. This study offers an innovative approach to sustainable aircraft design and energy efficiency.