Implementing low cost two-person supervisory control for small unmanned aerial systems

Abstract

Commercially off-the-shelf remote control (RC) model aircraft have been used as a base platform for the development of small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS). Such designs have included use of first person view (FPV), inertial measurement units, and autopilot systems. Recommended guidelines established for operation of FPV recreational RC aircraft have applicability to operation of sUAS, when use of consistent components and platforms are considered. The purpose of this research was to examine existing literature, guidance, regulations, and other influencing factors to assess the necessity of redundancy management practices to identify recommended control stratagem, processes and procedures, operational criteria, and design of a proof of concept system to operate sUAS with optimal safety and operational benefits within recommended and legislated boundaries. Qualitative content analysis techniques were used to perform a literature review, while a survey of applicable technology (e.g., equipment, components, and software) was used in the development of a proof of concept system. The results were identification of a recommended supervisory control framework, a simulated supervisory control system, a physical proof of concept system, and a series of recommendations relating to considerations and potential follow-up research to better understand the limitations, constraints, and applicable benefits in the actual operation environment.