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Article
Design Considerations and Requirements for In-Flight Refueling of Unmanned Vehicles
Journal of Aeronautics & Aerospace Engineering (2013)
  • Ian R. McAndrew, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
  • Kenneth L. Witcher, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Abstract
The need to refuel in-flight has become a significant part of military strategy for air forces to work at further distances from safe shores. The use of Unmanned Vehicles is increasing and expected to be the principal part of military deployment. This paper will address the concepts and requirements for applying refueling unmanned vehicles in a military context for supporting fixed and rotor aircraft. Design aspects of human factors in the process are considered, reviewed and solutions proposed to allow for the first generation of designs to be developed. Furthermore, the practical and operational limitations will be addressed as part of the human factors implications. Finally, the design parameters are proposed for the first stage developments to achieve Unmanned Vehicle refueling.
Keywords
  • in-flight refueling,
  • aerodynamics,
  • UAVs,
  • unmanned vehicles
Publication Date
January, 2013
DOI
https://doi.org/10.4172/2168-9792.1000108
Publisher Statement
Website link broken as of 3/29/18, Jane Deighan
Citation Information
Ian R. McAndrew and Kenneth L. Witcher. "Design Considerations and Requirements for In-Flight Refueling of Unmanned Vehicles" Journal of Aeronautics & Aerospace Engineering Vol. 2 Iss. 2 (2013) p. 1 - 4 ISSN: 2168-9792
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/kenneth-l-witcher/9/