UAV SensorClient

The objective of the project was to implement the OPTIMARE sensor concept UAV MEDUSA in a MiniUAV.

UAVs of this size allow to manage airborne tasks which were reserved so far for cost-intensive deployments of aircraft or helicopters and a limited group of users. In addition, manned aircraft operations are limited to few weeks per year for the user due to the availability of the aircraft because of the allocation of other users and time-intensive maintenance. The relatively small system price makes it possible for users to own their specifically equipped UAV. The user can then specify when and how the system shall be used. He is then also independent of the availabilities of an aircraft. This approach also allows to keep several UAV platforms because of the relative low costs of these systems. This allows an availability of an almost unlimited supply of UAVs.

The first step was the assembly of an UAV in order to integrate the MEDUSA sensor network and a simple camera sensor for monitoring. Then this UAV was used as a demonstrator in a simple operation where the UAV provides a service for scientific applications.

Furthermore UAV and SENSOR was matched closely so that future sensor systems, which are more complex in their application, can be implemented.

A ROTOR UAV, which was equipped with an analog camera, serves now as a carrier system. This turbine-driven system has maximum operating time of approximately 1.5 hours. A sensor package of approximately 4.5 kg can be carried and integrated. The entire system should not exceed a mass of 25 kg. The UAV is equipped with an autonomous controller which allows remote controlled, pilot-supported and autonomous flights.

Different data links such as satellites links via iridium satellite, short waves modems and standardized W-LAN connections were tested within this project.

The development was funded by the EU and the BIS Bremerhaven Gesellschaft für Investionsförderung mb according to grant number 68037-Z
This project was completed in collaboration with the Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research.