Feature: Avionics Figure 5: When
deployed as an airborne antenna, the UMAR can extend ship radio line- of-sight from eight to 30 miles
The UHV BCMs’ integrated EMI filtering capability
minimises noise that could compromise RF communication between drone and host. They offer a very clean EMI signature with few harmonics, below typical EMI standard levels. A small available companion filter outside the VIA package cuts conducted EMI levels to near noise-floor signature, well below typical requirements.
The sky’s the limit In addition to its current trial deployments with the US Navy, DPI technology is being evaluated by a host of government agencies, contractors and other entities. It shows significant promise for additional applications like first- response disaster relief and large-area monitoring (public events, stadium security, etc.). Anywhere a hover-in-place communications or surveillance presence might be needed, DPI multirotor drones can be readily deployed. With Vicor UHV BCMs at the heart of the UMAR
systems, DPI is assured of a power-dense, thermally-adept power system for high-voltage power conversion from tether to drone. As DPI multirotor drone technology takes flight, we can expect to see many more of these drones on the horizon.
BCMs are particularly valuable, since they enable a very power-dense board configuration. The Vicor BCM4414 in a VIA package is a high-efficiency
fixed-ratio bus converter, operating from a 500-800VDC high-voltage bus to deliver isolated 31.3-50VDC. Measuring about 110 x 35 x 9mm, this ultra-low-profile module provides up to 776W/in3
power density whilst incorporating DC-DC
conversion, integrated EMI filtering and PM Bus commands and controls in chassis- or board-mount forms. An array of eight BCMs powers the UMAR’s eight
independent rotors, but can also share power among them in parallel for increased redundancy; see Figure 6. An additional onboard UHV BCM powers the avionics, autopilot and payload functionalities. The high-efficiency UHV BCMs greatly reduce the heat
dissipation within the drone’s avionics modules, which are sealed in aluminum enclosures to prevent moisture ingress. The avionics modules use a system of heat pipes and sinks for passive cooling when the drone is grounded; see Figure 7. When airborne, the spinning rotors provide additional active cooling. A low voltage side referenced PM Bus compatible
telemetry and control interface provide access to the BCM VIA configuration, fault monitoring and other telemetry functions. This PM Bus capability allows UMAR operators to monitor system temperatures, voltage and currents in real time, which is particularly valuable in hot climates.
40 September 2023
www.electronicsworld.co.uk
Figure 6: There are eight Vicor UHV BCMs in an array, powering the DPI UMAR’s eight independent rotors
Figure 7: Ship- and boat-docking drone
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