Simulation and Flight Test Capability for Testing Prototype Sense and Avoid System Elements

By Charles Howell, III , Todd Stock , Harry Verstynen , Paul Wehner

The purpose of this paper is to document the development of simulation and flight-test capabilities, and describe initial testing of prototype sense and avoid (SAA) algorithms for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).

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The purpose of this paper is to document the development of simulation and flight-test capabilities, and describe initial testing of prototype sense and avoid (SAA) algorithms for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). The routine operation of UAS in non-segregated civil airspace presents many technical, operational, and policy challenges. One of the greatest challenges is the development of a capability for unmanned aircraft to 'sense and avoid' other aircraft, which is required as mitigation for the lack of an on-board pilot. Sense-and-avoid (SAA) includes the ability to both assure safe separation (i.e., remain well-clear) from other aircraft and to take immediate, evasive action to avoid an imminent collision. This ensures compliance with existing rules governing both operations near other aircraft and right-of-way (i.e., U.S. Code of Federal Regulations [CFR] Title 14, Part 91, Paragraphs 91.111 and 91.113).