A high frequency stabilization system for UAS imaging payloads

Abstract

A high frequency stabilization mount to compensate for small attitude fluctuations is developed for enhanced imaging and pointing systems on Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). This system consists of a custom camera mount, piezoelectric actuators, and a digital controller to actively control flight vibrations. Payload designs that acquire views of the Earth surface and stationary or moving targets require stable cameras for precision viewing. Placing cameras onboard these small aircraft are vital to the Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) mission of many payload designs. It is necessary to have real time precision viewing imaging systems while in flight, but it is increasingly difficult as the small planes reach higher altitudes. A slight change in the camera angle at high altitudes results in a large shift from the designated target. This project focuses on high frequency analysis for small oscillations rather than large attitude changes that are accomplished with a gimbal. The two systems work together to handle both the high frequency oscillations due to engine vibration and turbulence as well as large low frequency attitude changes. Results will include laboratory testing and simulation data to further prove the effectiveness of this specialized stabilization system. ©2010 Society for Experimental Mechanics Inc.