Autonomous UAV Anomaly Detection via Prediction Models

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems for maintaining communication networks with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are costly and inefficient, requiring multiple operators to remotely control each node and lack effective mechanisms for handling hardware or software faults during flight, leading to anomalous behavior and potential communication disruptions.

Innovation Solution

The BioAIR methodology enables autonomous detection and management of anomalies in UAV communication networks by using prediction models based on sensor data to identify and correct issues, allowing UAVs to autonomously form and maintain communication networks and repair faults without central control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple operators remotely control each UAV node, then communication network control is achieved, but operational cost and system complexity increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication network controlVSAvoidoperator coordination system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements autonomous anomaly detection and fault management capabilities within each UAV node, enabling the system to self-monitor and self-correct without external operator intervention. The anomaly detection module continuously monitors system parameters and automatically initiates fault isolation procedures, allowing the communication network to maintain reliability while eliminating the need for multiple operators.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates continuous feedback loops where sensor data from UAV nodes is transmitted to the network, analyzed for anomalies, and used to automatically adjust system operations. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables autonomous decision-making for fault detection and correction, replacing manual operator control while maintaining network reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If multiple operators remotely control UAVs, then communication monitoring is achieved, but operational efficiency decreases due to coordination overhead

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication monitoringVSAvoidoperational efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

Each UAV node is equipped with autonomous anomaly detection capabilities that continuously monitor communication parameters and system health without requiring external operator intervention. The system automatically detects, analyzes, and responds to anomalies, eliminating coordination overhead while maintaining continuous monitoring for reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary anomaly detection and fault isolation actions automatically before operators would need to intervene. By pre-configuring automated response protocols and continuously monitoring system parameters, the system maintains communication reliability while avoiding the inefficiency of human coordination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If conventional fault handling mechanisms are used, then hardware/software faults can be addressed, but response time increases and anomalous behavior persists

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefault handling capabilityVSAvoidfault response time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements real-time feedback mechanisms where sensor data is continuously analyzed for anomalies. When faults are detected, the system immediately initiates automated fault isolation procedures, significantly reducing response time compared to conventional manual fault handling. The continuous feedback loop ensures faults are detected and addressed at the earliest possible moment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary fault detection and isolation actions automatically upon anomaly detection, before the fault can propagate or cause significant damage. By pre-configuring automated response protocols and executing them immediately upon detection, the system minimizes fault response time and prevents anomalous behavior from persisting.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Loss of time

If autonomous anomaly detection is implemented, then fault response time decreases, but system complexity and computational requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefault response timeVSAvoidanomaly detection system
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The autonomous anomaly detection system is segmented into distributed modules located at each UAV node, with each module handling local monitoring and basic analysis. This segmentation reduces the computational burden on any single node while maintaining fast local response times. Complex analysis is distributed across the network, balancing computational requirements with rapid fault detection capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10805396B2Method and apparatus for biologically inspired autonomous infrastructure monitoring
Publication Date: 2020.10.13 EPISYS SCI
  • US10805396B2 patent drawing
  • US10805396B2 patent drawing
  • US10805396B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and apparatus are provided for autonomously detecting and reporting anomalies in actions of an autonomous mobile node, or in behaviors of a swarm of autonomous mobile nodes to an operator. The autonomous mobile node may experience anomalies or unexpected situations due to various failures or external influence (e.g. natural weather phenomena, enemy threats). During a training phase a prediction model and a structured model may be established from measurement data received from one or more sensors of an autonomous mobile node or a swarm of nodes while executing an action or behavior under normal circumstances. A prediction model forecasts the expected outcome of an action or behavior, and structured model helps quantify the similarity of a learned action or behavior to the currently observed situation. Based on the measurement data applicable models can be used for an action or behavior for anomaly detection in the action or behavior.