Unmanned aerial systems

Introduction

This is the "Autonomous Modular Wireless Aerial Devices" (AMWADS) project.

News

December 18, 2006 - Project started.

Collaborators

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Goals

Scope of this project

This project will attempt to assess whether or not the state of the art is currently conducive to this sort of technology, and if it is, how best to implement the technology.

Specific questions that will be explored:

Can systems be made that can remain airborne a long period of time?
- Are solar cells currently advanced enough to allow this?
- Do other technologies exist that could allow this?
- Can this be done relatively inexpensively?
Can software be developed to allow:
- Communication between these devices
- The devices to remain autonomous and safe
- Communication between the ground
- The devices to remain autonomous for long periods
Can this be done to look attractive and sleek?
- Can a twin blade design keep a vehicle aloft in an enclosure or in some hidden manner or other configuration?
Is the technology marketable and useful?

What are AMWADS?

AMWADS are just what the name implies. They are devices that fly around, know what function they are supposed to perform, and then perform it. Possible uses for this technology include: wireless mesh network clouds, speaker systems, lighting systems, video monitoring systems, cleaning and sanitation, shipping, reconnaissance aerial photography systems. Many other uses could probably be thought up.

This technology is different than other technologies such as "smart dust" because AMWADS are comparably HUGE. AMWADS have an estimated size of about 6cm to several meters.

This devices are unique to other autonomous aerial technologies because they are low cost and meant for more general and practical uses.

Other unique properties of AMWADS include that they run much longer than conventional aerial vehicles. Technologies such as light weight solar cells are integrated into the system so that are able to run independently for long periods.

Anecdotally it seems that many of todays devices achieve commercial success because: they are highly functional and useful, fun, and sexy. AMWADS if they are viable, should be all these things.

Specifications

AMWADS always include:

An on board computer with:
- With memory
- Wireless communication capabilities
- A GPS unit
Brushless motor
Thin solar cells
Twin rotors
Lipo batteries
Requisite wiring

AMWADS might include: