Power-over-tether Unmanned Aerial System Leveraged for Trajectory Influenced Atmospheric Sensing

Power-over-tether Unmanned Aerial System Leveraged for Trajectory Influenced Atmospheric Sensing PDF Author: Daniel A. Rico
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 222

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Book Description
The use of unmanned aerial systems (UASs) in agriculture has risen in the past decade and is helping to modernize agriculture. UASs collect and elucidate data previously difficult to obtain and are used to help increase agricultural efficiency and production. Typical commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) UASs are limited by small payloads and short flight times. Such limits inhibit their ability to provide abundant data at multiple spatiotemporal scales. In this thesis, we describe the design and construction of the tethered aircraft unmanned system (TAUS), which is a novel power-over-tether UAS configured for long-term, high throughput atmospheric monitoring with an array of sensors embedded along the tether. This was accomplished by leveraging the physical presence of the tether to integrate an array of sensors. With power from the ground station, the TAUS can acquire continuous volumetric data for numerous hours. The system is used to sense atmospheric conditions and temperature gradients across altitudes. We present the development of the prototype system, along with a discussion of the results from field experiments. We discuss the influence that power losses across the tether have on the sensors’ abilities to accurately sense atmospheric temperature. We demonstrate a 6-hour continuous flight at an altitude of 50 feet, and a 1-hour flight at sunset to acquire the gradually decreasing atmospheric temperature from an array of 6 sensors. We then modeled the TAUS and sensor array to computer simulate four trajectories (mower, spiral, star, and flower) for the TAUS and evaluated the system and sensing performance via well-defined factors. We conducted outdoor experiments to characterize system performance while in operation and to inform the development of models and trajectory simulations. From the analysis of the experimental data, we found minimal sensing error with respect to ground truth installations at comparable altitudes. Leveraging the simulated trajectory outcomes we reconstructed the changing input temperature fields. The analysis of the simulated data indicated that the power-tethered Star trajectory performed well with respect to key performance factors when measuring changing atmospheric fields. The TAUS will be improved by incorporating multivariable sensors and an optimal control algorithm for elevated levels of operational autonomy.

Power-over-tether Unmanned Aerial System Leveraged for Trajectory Influenced Atmospheric Sensing

Power-over-tether Unmanned Aerial System Leveraged for Trajectory Influenced Atmospheric Sensing PDF Author: Daniel A. Rico
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 222

Get Book Here

Book Description
The use of unmanned aerial systems (UASs) in agriculture has risen in the past decade and is helping to modernize agriculture. UASs collect and elucidate data previously difficult to obtain and are used to help increase agricultural efficiency and production. Typical commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) UASs are limited by small payloads and short flight times. Such limits inhibit their ability to provide abundant data at multiple spatiotemporal scales. In this thesis, we describe the design and construction of the tethered aircraft unmanned system (TAUS), which is a novel power-over-tether UAS configured for long-term, high throughput atmospheric monitoring with an array of sensors embedded along the tether. This was accomplished by leveraging the physical presence of the tether to integrate an array of sensors. With power from the ground station, the TAUS can acquire continuous volumetric data for numerous hours. The system is used to sense atmospheric conditions and temperature gradients across altitudes. We present the development of the prototype system, along with a discussion of the results from field experiments. We discuss the influence that power losses across the tether have on the sensors’ abilities to accurately sense atmospheric temperature. We demonstrate a 6-hour continuous flight at an altitude of 50 feet, and a 1-hour flight at sunset to acquire the gradually decreasing atmospheric temperature from an array of 6 sensors. We then modeled the TAUS and sensor array to computer simulate four trajectories (mower, spiral, star, and flower) for the TAUS and evaluated the system and sensing performance via well-defined factors. We conducted outdoor experiments to characterize system performance while in operation and to inform the development of models and trajectory simulations. From the analysis of the experimental data, we found minimal sensing error with respect to ground truth installations at comparable altitudes. Leveraging the simulated trajectory outcomes we reconstructed the changing input temperature fields. The analysis of the simulated data indicated that the power-tethered Star trajectory performed well with respect to key performance factors when measuring changing atmospheric fields. The TAUS will be improved by incorporating multivariable sensors and an optimal control algorithm for elevated levels of operational autonomy.

Airborne Wind Energy

Airborne Wind Energy PDF Author: Roland Schmehl
Publisher: Springer
ISBN: 9811019479
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 752

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Book Description
This book provides in-depth coverage of the latest research and development activities concerning innovative wind energy technologies intended to replace fossil fuels on an economical basis. A characteristic feature of the various conversion concepts discussed is the use of tethered flying devices to substantially reduce the material consumption per installed unit and to access wind energy at higher altitudes, where the wind is more consistent. The introductory chapter describes the emergence and economic dimension of airborne wind energy. Focusing on “Fundamentals, Modeling & Simulation”, Part I includes six contributions that describe quasi-steady as well as dynamic models and simulations of airborne wind energy systems or individual components. Shifting the spotlight to “Control, Optimization & Flight State Measurement”, Part II combines one chapter on measurement techniques with five chapters on control of kite and ground stations, and two chapters on optimization. Part III on “Concept Design & Analysis” includes three chapters that present and analyze novel harvesting concepts as well as two chapters on system component design. Part IV, which centers on “Implemented Concepts”, presents five chapters on established system concepts and one chapter about a subsystem for automatic launching and landing of kites. In closing, Part V focuses with four chapters on “Technology Deployment” related to market and financing strategies, as well as on regulation and the environment. The book builds on the success of the first volume “Airborne Wind Energy” (Springer, 2013), and offers a self-contained reference guide for researchers, scientists, professionals and students. The respective chapters were contributed by a broad variety of authors: academics, practicing engineers and inventors, all of whom are experts in their respective fields.

Handbook of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

Handbook of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles PDF Author: Kimon P. Valavanis
Publisher: Springer
ISBN: 9789048197064
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
The Handbook of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles is a reference text for the academic and research communities, industry, manufacturers, users, practitioners, Federal Government, Federal and State Agencies, the private sector, as well as all organizations that are and will be using unmanned aircraft in a wide spectrum of applications. The Handbook covers all aspects of UAVs, from design to logistics and ethical issues. It is also targeting the young investigator, the future inventor and entrepreneur by providing an overview and detailed information of the state-of-the-art as well as useful new concepts that may lead to innovative research. The contents of the Handbook include material that addresses the needs and ‘know how’ of all of the above sectors targeting a very diverse audience. The Handbook offers a unique and comprehensive treatise of everything one needs to know about unmanned aircrafts, from conception to operation, from technologies to business activities, users, OEMs, reference sources, conferences, publications, professional societies, etc. It should serve as a Thesaurus, an indispensable part of the library for everyone involved in this area. For the first time, contributions by the world’s top experts from academia, industry, government and the private sector, are brought together to provide unique perspectives on the current state-of-the-art in UAV, as well as future directions. The Handbook is intended for the expert/practitioner who seeks specific technical/business information, for the technically-oriented scientists and engineers, but also for the novice who wants to learn more about the status of UAV and UAV-related technologies. The Handbook is arranged in a user-friendly format, divided into main parts referring to: UAV Design Principles; UAV Fundamentals; UAV Sensors and Sensing Strategies; UAV Propulsion; UAV Control; UAV Communication Issues; UAV Architectures; UAV Health Management Issues; UAV Modeling, Simulation, Estimation and Identification; MAVs and Bio-Inspired UAVs; UAV Mission and Path Planning; UAV Autonomy; UAV Sense, Detect and Avoid Systems; Networked UAVs and UAV Swarms; UAV Integration into the National Airspace; UAV-Human Interfaces and Decision Support Systems; Human Factors and Training; UAV Logistics Support; UAV Applications; Social and Ethical Implications; The Future of UAVs. Each part is written by internationally renowned authors who are authorities in their respective fields. The contents of the Handbook supports its unique character as a thorough and comprehensive reference book directed to a diverse audience of technologists, businesses, users and potential users, managers and decision makers, novices and experts, who seek a holistic volume of information that is not only a technical treatise but also a source for answers to several questions on UAV manufacturers, users, major players in UAV research, costs, training required and logistics issues.

China’s Grand Strategy

China’s Grand Strategy PDF Author: Andrew Scobell
Publisher: Rand Corporation
ISBN: 1977404200
Category : History
Languages : en
Pages : 155

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Book Description
To explore what extended competition between the United States and China might entail out to 2050, the authors of this report identified and characterized China’s grand strategy, analyzed its component national strategies (diplomacy, economics, science and technology, and military affairs), and assessed how successful China might be at implementing these over the next three decades.

Remote Sensing of the Aquatic Environments

Remote Sensing of the Aquatic Environments PDF Author: Giacomo De Carolis
Publisher: Mdpi AG
ISBN: 9783036516660
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 292

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Book Description
The book highlights recent research efforts in the monitoring of aquatic districts with remote sensing observations and proximal sensing technology integrated with laboratory measurements. Optical satellite imagery gathered at spatial resolutions down to few meters has been used for quantitative estimations of harmful algal bloom extent and Chla mapping, as well as winds and currents from SAR acquisitions. The knowledge and understanding gained from this book can be used for the sustainable management of bodies of water across our planet.

Aerospace power in the twenty-first century a basic primer

Aerospace power in the twenty-first century a basic primer PDF Author: Clayton K. S. Chun
Publisher: DIANE Publishing
ISBN: 1428990291
Category : Air power
Languages : en
Pages : 351

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Book Description
Dr. Chun's Aerospace Power in the Twenty-First Century: A Basic Primer is a great start towards understanding the importance of aerospace power and its ability to conduct modern warfare. Aerospace power is continually changing because of new technology, threats, and air and space theories. However, many basic principles about aerospace power have stood the test of time and warfare. This book provides the reader with many of these time-tested ideas for consideration and reflection. Although Aerospace Power in the Twenty-First Century was written for future officers, individuals desiring a broad overview of aerospace power are invited to read, share, and discuss many of the ideas and thoughts presented here. Officers from other services will find that this introduction to air and space forces will give them a good grasp of aerospace power. More experienced aerospace leaders can use this book to revisit many of the issues that have affected air and space forces in the past and that might affect them in the future. Air Force officers will discover that Aerospace Power in the Twenty-First Century is a very timely and reflective resource for their professional libraries.

Aerial Manipulation

Aerial Manipulation PDF Author: Matko Orsag
Publisher: Springer
ISBN: 3319610228
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 246

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Book Description
This text is a thorough treatment of the rapidly growing area of aerial manipulation. It details all the design steps required for the modeling and control of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) equipped with robotic manipulators. Starting with the physical basics of rigid-body kinematics, the book gives an in-depth presentation of local and global coordinates, together with the representation of orientation and motion in fixed- and moving-coordinate systems. Coverage of the kinematics and dynamics of unmanned aerial vehicles is developed in a succession of popular UAV configurations for multirotor systems. Such an arrangement, supported by frequent examples and end-of-chapter exercises, leads the reader from simple to more complex UAV configurations. Propulsion-system aerodynamics, essential in UAV design, is analyzed through blade-element and momentum theories, analysis which is followed by a description of drag and ground-aerodynamic effects. The central part of the book is dedicated to aerial-manipulator kinematics, dynamics, and control. Based on foundations laid in the opening chapters, this portion of the book is a structured presentation of Newton–Euler dynamic modeling that results in forward and backward equations in both fixed- and moving-coordinate systems. The Lagrange–Euler approach is applied to expand the model further, providing formalisms to model the variable moment of inertia later used to analyze the dynamics of aerial manipulators in contact with the environment. Using knowledge from sensor data, insights are presented into the ways in which linear, robust, and adaptive control techniques can be applied in aerial manipulation so as to tackle the real-world problems faced by scholars and engineers in the design and implementation of aerial robotics systems. The book is completed by path and trajectory planning with vision-based examples for tracking and manipulation.

Small-Format Aerial Photography

Small-Format Aerial Photography PDF Author: James S. Aber
Publisher: Elsevier
ISBN: 0080932835
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 279

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Book Description
As the need for geographical data rapidly expands in the 21st century, so too do applications of small-format aerial photography for a wide range of scientific, commercial and governmental purposes. Small-format Aerial Photography (SFAP) presents basic and advanced principles and techniques with an emphasis on digital cameras. Unmanned platforms are described in considerable detail, including kites, helium and hot-air blimps, model airplanes, and paragliders. Several case studies, primarily drawn from the geosciences, are presented to demonstrate how SFAP is actually used in various applications. Many of these integrate SFAP with ground-based investigations as well as conventional large-format aerial photography, satellite imagery, and other kinds of geographic information. Full-color photographs throughout Case studies from around the globe Techniques presented allow for image resolution impossible to match via traditional aerial photography or satellite datasets Glossary clarifies key terms

U.S. Navy Employment Options for Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs)

U.S. Navy Employment Options for Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) PDF Author: Scott Savitz
Publisher: Rand Corporation
ISBN: 9780833081438
Category : Technology & Engineering
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
Assesses in what ways and to what degree unmanned surface vehicles are suitable for supporting U.S. Navy missions and functions.

Blindsight

Blindsight PDF Author: Peter Watts
Publisher: Macmillan
ISBN: 1429955198
Category : Fiction
Languages : en
Pages : 388

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Book Description
Hugo and Shirley Jackson award-winning Peter Watts stands on the cutting edge of hard SF with his acclaimed novel, Blindsight Two months since the stars fell... Two months of silence, while a world held its breath. Now some half-derelict space probe, sparking fitfully past Neptune's orbit, hears a whisper from the edge of the solar system: a faint signal sweeping the cosmos like a lighthouse beam. Whatever's out there isn't talking to us. It's talking to some distant star, perhaps. Or perhaps to something closer, something en route. So who do you send to force introductions with unknown and unknowable alien intellect that doesn't wish to be met? You send a linguist with multiple personalities, her brain surgically partitioned into separate, sentient processing cores. You send a biologist so radically interfaced with machinery that he sees x-rays and tastes ultrasound. You send a pacifist warrior in the faint hope she won't be needed. You send a monster to command them all, an extinct hominid predator once called vampire, recalled from the grave with the voodoo of recombinant genetics and the blood of sociopaths. And you send a synthesist—an informational topologist with half his mind gone—as an interface between here and there. Pray they can be trusted with the fate of a world. They may be more alien than the thing they've been sent to find. At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.