Thermodynamic design and evolution of unmanned aerial vehicles

This paper reviews the recent evolution of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) through the lens of thermodynamic design. Emphasis is placed on using constructal theory in order to understand the relationship between different degrees of freedom within these complex dynamic systems. Size scale, the way in which UAVs are categorized based on weight and dimensions and one of the most significant factors in the design of any UAV, is analyzed in terms of its relationship to energy consumption. Specifically, constructal theory is used to predict the minimum size at which any UAV will need to be tethered in order to support its energy requirements.