Multi-Mode UAS Remote ID Relay for Range and Receiver Ubiquity
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing use of unmanned aircraft (UAS) in recreational and commercial activities necessitates better integration into the National Airspace System, with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandating remote identification (RID) technology for most UAS operations, but existing communication protocols like WiFi and V/UHF have limitations in range and receiver ubiquity, failing to meet the diverse needs of various stakeholders.
Innovation Solution
A modular, multi-mode remote identification broadcast system (RBS) utilizing WiFi direct, RF direct (V/UHF), and radio relay modes, allowing configurable integration with UAS designs or as an aftermarket module, to transmit UAS data to multiple constituencies, including pilots, public safety, and the general public, using configurable components that support both short-range and long-range communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If WiFi protocol is used for remote identification broadcast, then receiver ubiquity is improved (nearly everyone has WiFi enabled device), but transmission range is worsened (relatively limited range)
Solution Approach 1:
The remote identification broadcast system is designed to support multiple communication protocols (WiFi and V/UHF) within a single system, allowing it to function universally across different range requirements. The system can select WiFi for short-range high ubiquity scenarios and V/UHF for long-range scenarios where specialized receivers are acceptable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the communication parameter (protocol type) based on the operational requirements. By switching between WiFi and V/UHF protocols, the system adapts the transmission characteristics to match the desired range and receiver availability for different flight scenarios.
2Length of stationary object
If V/UHF protocol is used for remote identification broadcast, then transmission range is improved (potentially greater range), but receiver ubiquity is worsened (compatible receivers are less ubiquitous)
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates both V/UHF and WiFi communication capabilities, making it universal enough to handle both long-range operations (using V/UHF) and short-range operations (using WiFi with ubiquitous receivers). This multi-functional approach eliminates the need to choose one protocol over the other based on range requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system acts as an intermediary by providing dual protocol support that bridges the gap between long-range communication needs (V/UHF) and widespread receiver availability (WiFi). This allows the system to mediate between conflicting requirements of range and ubiquity.
3Device complexity
If single-mode broadcast system is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different modes/missions is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The broadcast system is designed with multi-functionality to support multiple communication modes (WiFi and V/UHF) within a single system architecture. This allows the system to adapt to different operational modes and missions while maintaining a unified device structure that manages the complexity through integrated design.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention discloses a system and method of monitoring of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operating in the national airspace system (NAS). The multi-mode remote identification system (‘remote ID’) comprises an airborne sensor system having a multi-mode communication function adapted to remotely communicate the remote identification data of the unmanned aircraft system (UAS) to interested parties on the ground. The system includes the ability to communicate the UAS data using means compatible with smart phones or other portable personal computing devices for example using WiFi or Bluetooth communications. The system also discloses a means for communicating the UAS data over greater distances using V/UHF communication techniques and then relaying the data to end users using consumer compatible communication protocols such as WiFi and Bluetooth.