The development of the ZeeEye UAV provides environmentally friendly production and low-cost lightweight, durable proprietary CBM™ materials.

Technical Abstract:

As UAV technology is rapidly evolving to meet specific operational requirements, the ZeeEye combines three high power and money saving technologies which provide the ZeeEye extended flight endurance.

The ZeeEye UAV and launch platform is easily transported by one person ‘backpack’ style. The ZeeEye UAV is stored in its container which doubles as its launch platform. The UAV doesn’t need to be removed from its transporter/launcher prior to launch, as both wings of the UAV rotate forward and deploy automatically upon exiting its container. The command and control system is state-of-the-art with the ground control station stored in the transport case. Ease of transport and not requiring set-up time, saves deployment time and requires less training of personnel.

The ZeeEye UAV is powered by a hybrid engine/electric powerplant. The powerplant includes an alcohol fueled reciprocating RCV (Rotary Cylinder Valve with generator) engine, photocell recharging units on each wing, and an electric motor with LiPo batteries to maximize operational flexibility. The use of alcohol vs gasoline, an electric motor and its recharging photocell wing units, saves money and offers alternative energy solutions.

The lightweight, durable CBM™ proprietary materials are easily manufactured using low cost, readily available non-aerospace layers and have a short manufacturing time compared to materials currently in use.

The design concept for adaptive payloads has broad-based military and commercial applications including: mine detection, forest fire observation, agriculture use, sensors to detect chemical/biological hazards, troop movement, border security, etc.

The free-fall landing gear allows UAV recovery on smooth terrain. An optional arrested landing platform (also constructed of lightweight proprietary CCM™), is available for rougher terrain operations.

The transporter/launcher can be placed in any semi-open area; its forward legs extended, making it completely secured. The alcohol burning RCV engine is started (using the incorporated electric motor) by a timed sequence which allows the operator to be in a remote area, away from the UAV’s launch location. The ZeeEye is automatically sequenced for launch from its transporter/launcher. The gas charged cylinder provides added energy for the initial launch to maximize engine thrust.

Once airborne and at its nominal search altitude, the electric motor is engaged for sustained slow flight operation. The wing mounted photocells provide recharging during daylight operations. Should a higher dash speed be required, or if battery power should become critically low, the reciprocating engine can be restarted (using the incorporated electric motor) to provide generator recharge of the batteries.

Powerplant: 1.5 hp RCV alcohol burning engine. Electric motor w/LiPo Batteries (Scalable)
Fuel Capacity: Alcohol .5 gal.
Cruise Speed: 60 mph.
Endurance: 1.5 hours (minimum)
Wing Span: 38 in.
Length: 46 in.
Transport Box Size: 48 in. L X 20 in. W X 18 in. H
Empty Weight: 10 lbs.
Payload: 3 lbs.
MTO Weight: 16 lbs.
Payload Interface: Two switchable video inputs, three RS232 external
Ground Interface: Diagnostic Port, ground power in