Development and Evaluation of a Tethered Class C3 Hexacopter in Maritime Conditions on the Helipad of a Ferry

Various unmanned aerial vechicle (UAV) applications, especially those based on reconnaissance and observation missions, often require an unlimited time of flight. This is possible only when a UAV continuously supplied with power from ground-based source, which why tethered systems were developed. Tethered are multicopters, can hover above landing pad or track its position if it movable. The presented research concerned the development large C3 class hexacopter maximal payload about 1 kg takeoff mass 16 kg, was tested in maritime conditions during ferry’s cruise. main purpose to observe area ahead vessel detect localize obstacles water. During experimental tests, critical phases flight identified, AC/DC supply unit cord unwinder tested, required by six brushless direct current (BLDC) motors registered. obtained results could be useful future work applied windy conditions.