Issue 39 Unmanned Systems Technology August/September 2021 Maritime Robotics Mariner l Simulation tools focus l MRS MR-10 and MR-20 l UAVs insight l HFE International GenPod l Exotec Skypod l Autopilots focus l Aquaai Mazu

60 I n every previous UST engine dossier, we have focused on powerplant solutions that were almost all developed to solve one of the same few core problems concerning UAV propulsion. By and large, that has meant producing an all-new IC engine or fuel cell designed for an optimised power-to-weight ratio, time between overhauls (TBOs) or vibration output – with some variations here and there. While the GenPod system developed and patented by HFE International (who we previously featured in UST 10, October/November 2016, for its H70 marine engine) also incorporates some key optimisations for propulsion, the real raison d’etre of the Arizona- based manufacturer’s new solution is to shorten the times and burdens of UAV maintenance tasks. The GenPod is a complete propulsion system consisting of an engine, propeller, ECU, generator and various ancillary systems. Each contains at its core a Desert Aircraft two-stroke spark-ignited boxer (similar to that covered in UST 15, August/September 2017). The exact model of Desert Aircraft engine corresponds with the model of GenPod (and two GenPods were commercially available at the time of writing). The GenPod 70 is constructed Rory Jackson explains how this turnkey UAV propulsion system enables maintenance to be cut to a matter of seconds August/September 2021 | Unmanned Systems Technology HFE’s GenPod is a complete propulsion system Quick fit for purpose