UAV Contingency Flight Path Planning Under RF and GPS Constraints
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) lack the redundant communication and navigation systems to maintain signal access during in-flight contingencies, such as jamming or terrain blockages, limiting their ability to adapt flight paths safely and effectively.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a computer system with an RF environment model, geometric engine, and RF constraint logic that determines and adjusts the UAV's flight path to maintain signal reception, using algorithms to postulate new positions or orientations to improve RF reception and avoid jamming, while considering terrain and other constraints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If small UAVs use single radio and GPS receiver, then weight and power consumption are reduced, but reliability of communication and navigation is worsened when signals are blocked or jammed
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-programming multiple alternative flight paths before the UAV encounters signal blockage or jamming. When the primary communication or navigation signal is lost, the UAV automatically executes pre-planned alternative paths without requiring real-time manual intervention, thus maintaining mission continuity with minimal additional weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies dynamics by enabling the UAV to dynamically switch between pre-programmed flight paths based on real-time signal conditions. The UAV monitors signal quality and automatically transitions from the nominal path to alternative paths when degradation is detected, providing adaptive reliability without permanent redundant hardware.
2Ease of operation
If manual path selection is used in real-time, then operator control is maintained, but response time and accuracy are reduced due to human estimation limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The system resolves this contradiction by pre-calculating and storing multiple alternative flight paths before signal loss occurs. When manual intervention is needed, the operator selects from pre-computed options rather than estimating paths in real-time, significantly reducing response time while maintaining operator control over the final decision.
3Productivity
If pre-programmed behavior is used for signal loss, then automatic response is achieved, but adaptability to specific contingency situations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves both automatic response and adaptability through dynamic path selection. Multiple pre-programmed alternative paths are created for different contingency scenarios (e.g., communication loss, GPS denial, terrain blockage). The UAV automatically selects and executes the appropriate pre-programmed path based on the specific type of signal degradation detected, providing both speed and situational adaptability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If UAV flies behind mountains to support unplanned mission, then mission versatility is improved, but communication and navigation signal access is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables unplanned mission execution while maintaining signal access through preliminary action. Before the UAV departs from the nominal flight path to support unplanned objectives (such as searching for signals behind mountains), the operator or autonomous system selects and programs alternative flight paths that maintain communication and navigation signal access. This allows the UAV to pursue versatile mission objectives without sacrificing reliable signal reception.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An enhanced control system for an unmanned aerial vehicle adds constraints to the process of choosing a flight path in the event of an in-flight contingency, such as engine out or an encounter with jamming, which forces a diversion or unplanned landing. The constraints are: (1) ensure communications are available when needed during contingency operations; and (2) ensure signals from a global positioning system (or other navigation system) are available when needed during contingency operations.