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6.9 Seeker
6.10 Questions
7.1 Introduction
7.2 Basic Fundamentals
7.3 Modules/Components
7.4 Flight Software
7.4.1 Software Development
7.4.2 Operating System
7.4.3 Management Software
7.4.4 Microcontroller Programing
7.4.5 Software Integration
7.4.6 C Language
7.4.7 Compiler
7.4.8 ArduPilot
7.4.9 Debugging
7.4.10 Design Procedure
7.5 Questions
8.1 Introduction
8.2 GCS Subsystems
8.3 Human Operator in Ground Station
8.4 Types of Ground Stations
8.4.1 Handheld Controller
8.4.2 Portable GCS
8.4.3 Mobile Truck
8.4.4 Central Command Station
8.5 Communication System
8.6 Design Considerations
8.7 Questions
9.1 Introduction
9.2 Fundamentals of Launch
9.3 Launcher Equipment
9.4 Recovery Techniques
9.5 Recovery Fundamentals
9.5.1 Parachute
9.5.2 Impact Recovery
9.6 Air Launch
9.7 Hand Launch
9.8 Launch and Recovery Systems Design
9.9 Questions
9.10 Problems
10.1 Introduction
10.2 Payload Definition
10.3 Cargo or Freight Payload
10.4 Reconnaissance/Surveillance Payload
10.4.1 Camera
10.4.2 Radar
10.5 Scientific Payloads
10.6 Military Payload (Weapon)
10.7 Payload Installation
10.7.1 Payload Location
10.7.2 Payload Aerodynamics
10.7.3 Payload-Structure Integration
10.7.4 Payload Stabilization
10.8 Payload Control and Management
10.9 Payload Selection/Design Considerations
10.10 Questions
10.11 Problems
Preface
The Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) is a remotely piloted or self-piloted aircraft that can carry cameras, sensors, communications equipment or other payloads. All flight operations (including take-off and landing) are performed without on-board human pilot. In some reports of DOD, Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) is preferred. In media reports, Drone is preferred. Mission is to perform critical missions without risk to personnel and more cost effectively than comparable manned system.
The contributions of unmanned aircraft in sorties, hours, and expanded roles continue to increase. As of September 2004, some 20 types of coalition UAVs, large and small, have flown over 100,000 total flight hours in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Their once reconnaissance only role is now shared with strike, force protection, and signals collection. These diverse systems range in cost from a few hundred dollars (Amazon sells varieties) to tens of millions of dollars. Range in capability from Micro Air Vehicles (MAV) weighing much less than a pound to aircraft weighing over 40,000 pounds.
The UAV system includes four elements: (1) air vehicle; (2) ground control station; (3) payload; and (4) maintenance/support system. The design of manned aircraft and the design of UAVs have some similarities; and some differences. They include the: (1) design process; (2) constraints (e.g., g-load, pressurization; and (3) UAV main components (autopilot, ground station, communication system, sensors, and payload). A UAV designer must be aware of: (a) latest UAV developments; (b) current technologies; (c) known lessons learned from past failures; and (d) designer should appreciate the breadth of UAV design options.
A design process requires both integration and iteration. A design process includes: (1) Synthesis: the creative process of putting known things together into new and more useful combinations; (2) Analysis: the process of predicting the
