Unmanned Systems - March 2020
The latest advances in aerial, ground, and underwater unmanned systems are covered in this special report, a compendium of recent articles from the editors of Tech Briefs and Aerospace & Defense Technology.
Don't have an account?
Overview
The Unmanned Systems Special Report from March 2020 provides a comprehensive overview of advancements in unmanned technologies, focusing on artificial intelligence, autonomous vehicles, and underwater drone capabilities. The report highlights the growing importance of these systems in both military and civilian applications, reflecting on their potential to enhance operational efficiency and safety.
Artificial Intelligence and Autonomous Vehicles: The report begins by discussing the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in autonomous vehicles, emphasizing how AI enhances decision-making processes and operational capabilities. The use of AI allows for improved navigation, obstacle avoidance, and mission planning, making unmanned systems more effective in complex environments.
Underwater Drone Technology: A significant portion of the report is dedicated to unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), which have evolved to perform various tasks such as mine clearance, search and recovery operations, and environmental monitoring. The report details the capabilities of UUVs like the Hydroid REMUS, which can complete tasks much faster than human divers, showcasing their efficiency and safety in hazardous underwater environments.
The CAN Bus and Autonomous Military Vehicles: The report also explores the Controller Area Network (CAN) bus technology, which is crucial for the communication between various components of autonomous military vehicles. This technology enables real-time data exchange, enhancing the coordination and functionality of unmanned systems on the battlefield.
Autonomous "Wingman" Vehicles: Another innovative concept discussed is the use of autonomous "wingman" vehicles that can support manned aircraft in combat scenarios. These vehicles can perform reconnaissance, provide additional firepower, and assist in mission execution, thereby increasing the effectiveness of manned missions while reducing risk to human pilots.
Microturbine Propulsion for UAVs: The report highlights advancements in propulsion systems, particularly the development of microturbine engines for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). These engines promise to deliver higher performance and reliability compared to traditional propulsion systems, which is essential for the future of UAV operations.
Parcel Delivery Drones: The report features an application brief on Airbus's Skyways parcel delivery drone, which has begun trials in Singapore. This initiative marks a significant step in utilizing drone technology for logistics, demonstrating the potential for drones to deliver essential supplies to maritime vessels efficiently.
Challenges and Future Directions: The report acknowledges the challenges faced by unmanned systems, including the need for robust communication networks, fault tolerance, and the ability to operate in contested environments. It emphasizes the importance of continued innovation and adaptation to meet the evolving demands of modern warfare and civilian applications.
In conclusion, the Unmanned Systems Special Report provides valuable insights into the current state and future potential of unmanned technologies. It underscores the transformative impact of AI and advanced engineering on military and civilian operations, paving the way for a new era of efficiency, safety, and capability in unmanned systems.
