Analyzing and Calibrating Precision Controls on UAV's

Analyzing and Calibrating Precision Controls on UAV’s

In the expanding field of autonomous technology, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV’s) have become an essential tool for gathering information.  They have been used for a variety of functions, such as remote sensing, commercial and military aerial surveillance, transportation, and scientific research.  We worked with Unmanned Aircraft Systems in the Control and Optimization Lab, testing autopilot devices that will be used on UAV’s.  We created experiments that tested the inertial sensors and evaluated other physical properties.  One task involved designing and building a one-axis, free-swinging pendulum that held the unmanned aircraft to measure its inertial properties.  Another experiment involved a controlled rotation rate table that tested inertial measurement sensors.  We used microcontrollers and analog dials to control the apparatus testing the devices and the display which contained relevant system information.  The experiments incorporated mechanical, electrical, and computer software components and thus required a significant planning component.  Our completed work spanned the full project cycle of initial system requirements gathering, designing, and prototyping using SolidWorks and other tools; parts acquisition; construction (mechanical and software); implementation, and testing. The information gathered will help calibrate and improve the autopilot devices that will go on future unmanned aircrafts.