Small adaptive flight control systems for UAVs using FPGA/DSP technology

Henrik B. Christophersen, Wayne J. Pickell, Adrian A. Koller, Suresh K. Kannan, Eric N. Johnson

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

34 Scopus citations

Abstract

Future small UAVs will require enhanced capabilities like seeing and avoiding obstacles, tolerating unpredicted flight conditions, interfacing with payload sensors, tracking moving targets, and cooperating with other manned and unmanned systems. Cross-platform commonality to simplify system integration and training of personnel is also desired. A small guidance, navigation, and control system has been developed and tested. It employs Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) and Digital Signal Processor (DSP) technology to satisfy the requirements for more advanced vehicle behavior in a small package. Having these two processors in the system enables custom vehicle interfacing and fast sequential processing of high-level control algorithms. This paper focuses first on the design aspects of the hardware and the low-level software. Discussion of flight test experience with the system controlling both an unmanned helicopter and an 11-inch ducted fan follow.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationCollection of Technical Papers - AIAA 3rd "Unmanned-Unlimited" Technical Conference, Workshop, and Exhibit
Pages780-787
Number of pages8
StatePublished - 2004
EventCollection of Technical Papers - AIAA 3rd "Unmanned-Unlimited" Technical Conference, Workshop, and Exhibit - Chicago, IL, United States
Duration: Sep 20 2004Sep 23 2004

Publication series

NameCollection of Technical Papers - AIAA 3rd "Unmanned-Unlimited" Technical Conference, Workshop, and Exhibit
Volume2

Other

OtherCollection of Technical Papers - AIAA 3rd "Unmanned-Unlimited" Technical Conference, Workshop, and Exhibit
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityChicago, IL
Period9/20/049/23/04

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Engineering

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