Low-Cost Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) for Oceanographic Research

Abstract : This Phase I study has demonstrated the feasibility of developing a low-cost unmanned air vehicle (UAV) designed for a range of oceanographic research missions, including photogrammetry, radiometry, video imaging, and atmospheric profiling, at altitudes of up to 3 km and a range of 300 km. The work included identification of a data link, control system, autopilot, automated launcher, and recovery parachute. These subsystems will allow straightforward programming of a wide range of mission profiles and instrumentation control and accurate aircraft positioning (including differential GPS positioning within 10 km of a ground station). We also demonstrated a low-cost radio-controlled aircraft capable of carrying a 4-kg instrument payload and an autopilot that minimizes the skill (or control algorithm complexity) required to fly the aircraft. We have estimated that a complete UAV system, including the ground station and all avionics, can be sold commercially for under $35K. Aircraft, Autopilot, Oceanography, Photogrammetry, Radiometry, Remotely Piloted Vehicle(RPV), Unmanned Air Vehicle(UAV), Videography