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Autopilot system on MUAV
Last Post 10 Sep 2012 01:57 PM by Niel. 5 Replies.
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sitman
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Posts:3

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09 Aug 2012 07:35 PM
    Hi, i am designing a MUAV and working on the control system at the moment. The mission profile is simple and the MUAV loiter around 50m to 100m.

    My question is: Is it necessary to use autopilot control? Can i simply use smart phone to do that by sending out wifi signal to the receiver on board?

    Thanks!
    Niel
    Basic Member
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    Posts:193

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    11 Aug 2012 03:21 PM
    The decision to include autopilot control depends on two critical considerations

    1. How much operational work load do you want to or need to remove from the human pilot?

    2. Do you have the time and expertise to implement the autopilot?

    Yes, implementing an autopilot will take considerable time an effort, though that may be simplified using a off-the-shelf design, but if implemented properly it can produce a more reliable design.

    Is this design part of a competition? If so which one?

    Niel Leon
    engineering.com
    sitman
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    New Member
    Posts:3

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    09 Sep 2012 12:31 AM
    • Accepted Answer
    Hi Niel,

    Thanks for you reply!

    It is a university design project with a printable UAV with 3kg payload. I am just wondering if the autopilot system can be operated without GPS but using Inertial Measurement sensors instead

    If not, is there any way to establish the autopilot system without GPS??

    sitman
    Niel
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    Posts:193

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    09 Sep 2012 10:47 AM
    sitman:

    Autopilot systems require knowing where they are how are you going to determine where you are and where you are going without using:

    1. GPS?
    2. Intertial Sensors?
    3. Some other type of method of determining and validating your position?

    All these have advantages and disadvantages.

    Niel
    sitman
    New Member
    New Member
    Posts:3

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    09 Sep 2012 11:01 AM
    The UAV will loiter at altitude between 50m to 100m. And UAV will fly within a range of 100m from the ground user and ground user will have line of sight on UAV all the time.

    And i would like to know if the inertial measurement sensors are sufficient to determine the position of UAV so that i can achieve both direction and altitude fixed flight?
    Niel
    Basic Member
    Basic Member
    Posts:193

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    10 Sep 2012 01:57 PM
    You should be able to determine that information from the specifications of the sensors you intend to you. Most Inertial movement devices will provide you with the information that you need and will provide you with information as to how to maximize their potential.

    Niel
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