Numerical analysis of solar array layout optimization for stratospheric airship performance

Solar power is a vital energy source for stratospheric airships, and the layout of solar array influences both their performance and the airship's parameters. Existing research on solar optimization remains constrained by oversimplified assumptions. While symmetric solar layouts dominate prior studies, asymmetric configurations and the impact of heading angles on solar incidence have been neglected. Additionally, the interplay between solar array optimization and stratospheric airship parameters lacks comprehensive investigation. To address existing gaps, this study conducts a comprehensive analysis of solar array optimization under varying heading angles and the enhancement of airship parameters driven by such optimization. A numerical discretization method is applied to model curved solar arrays, and a coupled energy-force equilibrium model is established to quantify airship parameter variations. The effects of solar array performance on airship parameters are assessed. Furthermore, through the optimization of solar array, the optimal installation plan for solar array under different heading angles can be obtained. Research indicates that: (1) With the heading angle ranges from 0° to 180°, the output energy of the solar array reaches a minimum when the heading angle is 45°, and attains its maximum value at 180°; (2) by optimizing the solar array layout, the area of solar array can be reduced by 23.3 %; (3) under equivalent mission scenarios, this optimization leads to a 5.1 % reduction in the airship's total weight, and with the same total weight limitation, it boosts the airship's payload capacity by 1.58 times. Results of this study provide technical pathways for the optimization of solar array and the design of stratospheric airships. • Numerical discretization methods enable precise calculation of curved solar cell output performance. • Solar cell output performance has a vital impact on the overall parameters of stratospheric airships. • Solar cell layout optimization effectively reduces the solar cell area requirement. • Enhanced solar cell performance leads to a notable improvement in stratospheric airship capabilities.