Exploiting a GSM Network for Precise Payload Delivery

Abstract

This paper introduces the novel concept of using a GSM network for command of and communications with multiple aerial delivery systems. The research prototype of such a system, Snowflake-N, allows communicating with other network clients via a commercial Blackberry Curve 8310 handheld over a Bluetooth connection. A new architecture allows reassigning targets and sending other relevant commands (via web interface, by voice, data, or text messages) to an onboard autopilot, which is within a network reach, from any place in the world. Similarly, a current position of the descending system and target assignment can be viewed from any computer connected to the Internet worldwide using a standard Google Earth viewer. The networking capability also allows uplinking the latest weather data measured by a portable target weather station, being a part of a network as well, and therefore drastically improving an accuracy of a payload delivery. The paper extends the previous work by the authors and introduces the current state of the Snowflake-N development. It presents a C 2 concept for the aerial delivery systems, talks about communication protocols, presents the hardware set-up, components and results of recent drops. The paper ends with conclusions and recommendations for further development.

Using direct methods for terminal guidance of autonomous aerial delivery systems

“…On the other hand, IDVD allows to automatically satisfy all BC and guarantees fast convergence (apparently running on a much less powerful computer compared to that of Megafly's GNC unit). Moreover, IDVD approach has even more potential by adjusting the TC according to the current accuracy of reference trajectory tracking as outlined in [14]. Both approaches allow and will definitely benefit from uplinking the ground winds so that they can be accordingly accommodated in (6) (see [14]).…”

“…Moreover, IDVD approach has even more potential by adjusting the TC according to the current accuracy of reference trajectory tracking as outlined in [14]. Both approaches allow and will definitely benefit from uplinking the ground winds so that they can be accordingly accommodated in (6) (see [14]). …”

Autonomous Aerial Payload Delivery System "Blizzard"

“…Another technique to achieve a high touchdown accuracy is networking, enabling communication between multiple descending ADSs, UAV, ground weather stations and an operator, who can reside anywhere in the world. 4 Depending on application the simplest way of communicating is using the commercial network or its tactical extension. 4 Figure 11a shows the network architecture in this case.…”

“…4 Depending on application the simplest way of communicating is using the commercial network or its tactical extension. 4 Figure 11a shows the network architecture in this case. Ground target weather stations (Fig.5b), based on a portable Kestrel 4000 weather device, measure the ground winds and constantly uplink them to the descending Snowflakes via a Blackberry cell phone interfacing with the Kestrel via Bluetooth module.…”

“…Other novelties included networking and global reach capability. 4 Integrated with one of the best Tier II class unmanned aerial systems, Arcturus T-20, equipped with the autopilot and optical sensors to find and track targets and capable of carrying up to 65lbs of payload, Snowflake ADS comprises a complete, self-contained mobile combat system for precise aerial delivery with a global reach capability. This system, Autonomous ADS "Blizzard" (AADS) was first demonstrated in public at the Precision Airdrop Technology Conference and Demonstration (PATCAD) at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground in October of 2009.…”