PEMFC Response Characteristics of Drones for Pesticide Spraying Using a Dynamic Model

In this study, an integrated model for analyzing the dynamic characteristics of a drone for pesticides, which operates on an open cathode fuel cell system, was developed. The integrated drone model comprised an open cathode stack model, thermal response model, fan model for air supply into the stack and stack cooling, motor model for fan operation, and pump model for pesticide infection. The designed model was validated using experimental data to confirm the accuracy of the system. The PI controller controlled the altitude of the drone, and the total weight of the drone was lowered because of spraying pesticide while changing altitude. Consequently, the thrust generated by the motor and the required power were decreased. The proposed drone model accurately replicates altitude control and the transient response of the drone weight.