RF Beacon Collision Avoidance for Manned and Unmanned Aircraft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for collision avoidance between manned and unmanned aerial vehicles are either expensive or inadequate, with visual markings being ineffective due to the speed and size of unmanned vehicles, posing a hazard during training exercises.
Innovation Solution
A low power RF beacon mounted on unmanned aerial vehicles transmits signals on predefined frequencies that break the squelch of manned aircraft communication systems, alerting pilots of proximity and enabling evasive maneuvers without requiring modifications to the manned aircraft's equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If video processing technology is used for obstacle avoidance, then collision detection capability is improved, but system cost and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex video processing systems with a simple RF beacon transmission system. Instead of using cameras and computer vision algorithms to detect and avoid obstacles, the UAV transmits RF beacons that alert manned aircraft to its presence through squelch breaking, substituting mechanical/visual detection with electromagnetic signal transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive RF beacons as a cost-effective alternative to expensive video processing systems. The RF beacon is a simple, low-cost component that provides adequate collision avoidance functionality without the high expense and complexity of video processing technology.
2Loss of information
If visual markings are used on UAVs, then identification capability is improved, but effectiveness deteriorates due to speed and size of UAVs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visual identification methods (paint schemes and markings) with RF signal transmission. Instead of relying on visual markings that are ineffective at high speeds, the system uses RF beacons that transmit identification and presence information electronically, breaking the squelch of manned aircraft communication systems to alert pilots.
Solution Approach 2:
The RF beacon acts as an intermediary between the UAV and the manned aircraft pilot. Rather than relying on direct visual observation which fails at high speeds, the RF beacon mediates the communication by transmitting signals that alert the pilot to the UAV's presence and location.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution provides a low-cost, effective collision avoidance system that is modular, easy to install, and compatible with both military and civilian use, allowing for safe proximity alerts without additional equipment on manned aircraft, ensuring evasive maneuvers can be taken to avoid collisions.
Implementation Method 1
a low power RF beacon which transmits signals over a predefined frequency monitored by manned aerial vehicles
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure is directed to systems and methods for collision avoidance of aerial vehicles. More particularly, the disclosure is directed to systems and methods for avoiding collisions between manned aerial vehicles and unmanned aerial vehicles. The unmanned aerial vehicle includes a low power RF beacon which transmits signals over a predefined frequency monitored by manned aerial vehicles.