Integrating ubiquitous radar technology for advanced detect and avoid capabilities
In the fast-evolving field of uncrewed aerial vehicles () the need for sophisticated detect and avoid (DAA) capabilities has never been more important. Developing these technologies is critical in enhancing operational safety whilst allowing stringent regulatory standards in aviation to be met. Plextek is addressing this crucial safety challenge by pioneering innovative solutions through our ubiquitous radar technology.
Ubiquitous radar provides UAV safety
As UAVs become more prevalent in commercial, industrial, and civil airspace, ensuring their safe coexistence with both crewed and uncrewed aircraft is increasingly complex.
Unlike traditional scanning radars that rely on sweeping a narrow beam to survey the environment, capturing information sequentially, Plextek’s ubiquitous radar revolutionises traditional sensing by continuously illuminating and monitoring the entire scene within its field of view. Plextek’s innovative radar system can detect returns from multiple objects, in multiple directions simultaneously, and this constant situational awareness enables the radar to maintain a real-time, comprehensive view of its environment, thereby enhancing its detection capabilities.
The potential to integrate ubiquitous radar technology into uncrewed systems could offer a leap forward in collision avoidance capabilities. This advanced sensing solution enhances autonomous detection and evasion abilities, reducing the risk of in-flight incidents. Importantly, this technology serves a dual purpose: for it not only safeguards the uncrewed vehicles themselves, but also protects the broader airspace ecosystem . By enabling UAVs to coexist safely with other aircraft and obstacles, ubiquitous radar contributes to the overall safety and integrity of shared airspace, paving the way for more widespread and responsible autonomous UAV operations.
Extending beyond visual line of sight operations
The ubiquitous radar technology can expand UAV operational capabilities, offering the potential to enable flight beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS). This functionality could open new possibilities for UAV use, from long-range logistics to emergency response or where it is necessary to operate safely over extended distances.
A demonstration of innovation: Flowcopter
Flowcopter are partnering with Plextek to transform remote logistics through its innovative FC100 heavy-lift UAV powered by a novel hydraulic transmission. One of the challenges the project faces is ensuring the safe navigation of the UAV beyond the visual line of sight in complex or unpredictable environments.
Reliable detect and avoid technology is crucial for enhancing flight operations. To address this, we performed preliminary integration of our Ubiquitous Radar technology platform (PLX-U16) with Flowcopter’s heavy-lift UAV. By equipping the UAV with autonomous obstacle detection, we substantially reduce the risk of mid-air collisions and enhancing overall operational safety. The improved reliability and autonomy of the system can open new possibilities for UAV applications in challenging environments where conventional transportation methods face limitations.
The FC100, has been designed and developed to support a wide range of critical operations, including search and rescue, law enforcement, and remote delivery. This versatile utility copter boasts an impressive payload capacity of up to 200 kg, making it a game-changer for various industries and applications. Its design enables it to excel in challenging maritime environments, supporting ship-to-shore and ship-to-ship operations. Its robust construction and advanced features make it particularly well-suited for offshore logistics, where it can significantly enhance operational efficiency and safety.
Continued trials with Flowcopter are focussed on refining the radar’s range, accuracy, and ability to differentiate between various types of obstacles such as other aircraft or terrain features. This research is crucial for developing systems that can firstly match, and then outperform human pilots in terms of detection range and reaction time, ultimately paving the way for safer integration of UAVs into non-segregated airspace.
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