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Maximizing the absorption and utilization of solar energy is a bottleneck issue and hot research concern for high-altitude long-endurance (HALE) solar-powered UAVs (SP-UAVs). This paper investigates the overall design and task optimization for a deformable/reconfigurable SP-UAV platform that utilizes its modular characteristics to optimize the overall solar absorption and structural weight while maximizing its mission utility. First, we establish the energy absorption/consumption model, the aerodynamic model, and the subsystem mass prediction model. Based on these models, the overall parameter design and optimization scheme of a modular SP-UAV is proposed by using heuristic intelligence algorithms. The results show that the loading ratio of the deformable modular SP-UAV increases from 8.2&#x0025; to 9.8&#x0025;. Then, the flight processes in both the deformed and the reconfigured cases are verified under task-oriented scenarios. Simulation results indicate that compared with comparable benchmarks with conventional layouts, deformable SP-UAVs are capable of increasing the feasible zone from 72 to 142 days. Additionally, the separation and recombination points are optimized and determined at specific latitudes and dates. A performance analysis shows that separation in the daytime can multiply, thereby increasing the flight range, although the feasible zone shrinks with increasing UAV unit number.

An Optimal Energy Absorption and Utilization Design for Deformable/Reconfigurable Modular Solar-Powered UAVs in Near Space