Seminar on Enhancing Drone Flight of Time using SOFC with ALD Thin Film Coating

02 Aug 2024 02.30 PM - 03.30 PM The Arc, Level 1, LHN TR+18 Current Students, Public

Prof. Yong Jin YOON

Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), South Korea

This seminar will be chaired by A/P Moon Seung Ki.

Seminar Abstract

The growing demand for drones in various applications, from military scouting to industrial inspections, has highlighted the need for more efficient and sustainable power solutions. Traditional lithium-ion batteries, while widely used, suffer from limitations such as low power density and long charging times, which significantly restrict the time of flight (ToF) of drones. This presentation explores the potential of hydrogen fuel cells, specifically Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs), to overcome these limitations and enhance drone performance. Hydrogen-powered SOFCs offer several advantages over conventional batteries, including higher energy density and the capability to operate at lower temperatures with greater efficiency. By leveraging advanced materials and fabrication techniques, such as silicon-based nano-film coatings and atomic layer deposition (ALD), these fuel cells achieve superior power density and structural stability. This technology not only promises extended ToF for drones but also aligns with the global shift towards zero-carbon emissions, making it a compelling solution for green mobility. The presentation will cover the technical challenges and solutions in developing lightweight, compact, and high-power density fuel cells, and the potential applications of this technology in various drone operations. The ultimate goal is to demonstrate the feasibility of hydrogen fuel cells as a viable and sustainable alternative to traditional battery systems in enhancing the operational capabilities of drones.

    Speaker's Biography 

    Prof. Yoon obtains his Ph.D. degree (2009) in Mechanical Engineering with two Master degrees from Mechanical Engineering (2005) and Electrical Engineering (2008) from Stanford University. Prof. Yoon also obtains his Ph.D. minor degree in Management Science and Engineering (2009) in Stanford University. His current research includes 3D printed biosensors, drone power sources using nano thin-film fabrication, and smart manufacturing for advanced nano drone. Currently he is an Associate Professor in the department of mechanical Engineering at KAIST, a President of the University Industrial Technology Force (UNITEF), Advisor of KAIST Startup Center, Director of the Advanced Drone Innovation Center, Advisory Partner of Enlight Venture Capital, Venture Partner of ES Investor Group and Visiting Professor of Nanyang Technological University. He has published more than 131 international journal articles (SCI indexed) and 170 international conference proceeding papers, Besides his research, Prof. Yoon is interested in an academic-based entrepreneur career as a start-up accelerator. For the past years, he has been actively incubating start-ups where he took the lead to raise startup funding from government entities and renowned global venture capitals. 

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