|
|
HUSKY
Unmanned Aerial Vehicle System
Autonomous Helicopter
The Autonomous Helicopter (UAV) combines long endurance and large payload capacity into a relatively small outline. The UAV can complete its entire mission automatically, from takeoff to landing, controlled by a triple-redundant flight computer based on proven flight control methods and algorithms. Redundant INS and GPS modules ensure precision navigation and stability in all phases of flight, guaranteeing that the payload is accurately positioned in accordance with its tasking. The onboard navigation computer is capable of storing and managing all waypoint commands, allowing continuous operation independent of the control station. The datalink receives control inputs from, and transmits position and payload data to, the control station in real-time. Mission radius is dependent upon the user-specified ground antenna configuration, and payload weight.
The UAV has been designed as a platform for a wide variety of payloads, and therefore no standard payload is offered, rather they are integrated according to customer requirements. The UAV features two payload bays, side hard points and an internal auxiliary electronics/avionics bay. The primary payload bay, located directly beneath the main rotor shaft, is capable of mounting payloads weighing up to 40kg. Fixed-mounted daylight and/or infrared cameras provide the operator with situational awareness and orientation.
| Take-Off Gross Weight, kg |
90 |
 |
| Payload Weight, kg |
42 |
|
| Fuel Weight, kg |
20 |
|
| Empty weight, kg |
28 |
|
The UAV fuselage is made of carbon-fibre, which gives a superior strength/weight ratio, providing maximum capacity for a wide range of payload/endurance combinations.
| Length, m |
3.4 |
|
| Height, m |
1.0 |
|
| Width, m |
1.5 |
|
| Rotor diameter, m |
3.2 |
The UAV is also being developed for maritime applications, where, like its predecessor, it will be capable of landing on helicopter deck-equipped ships without the use of additional landing equipment.
The design of the helicopter allows its transporting on a small car trailer.
The UAV is powered by two turbo-jet engines.
GROUND CONTROL STATION
The control station concept is scaleable, from operation from two laptop computers (one for mission planning/control, one for payload control, imagery exploitation) to larger, integrated suites. The mission planning/control workstation displays UAV position and status information in real-time, to an aviation-style instrument panel, with integrated checklists and failure procedures. Mission planning and preparation are done using Geographical Information System (GIS) data, and the entire mission can be viewed and rehearsed within a 3-D synthetic environment. The GIS environment allows the display of additional layers of GIS data, such as threat zones, no-fly zones and other intelligence information.
The payload control workstation allows the payload operator to control the payload and have simultaneously access to mission planning information.
| Speed |
Max 150kmph, cruise 110kmph |
|
| Maximum Operating Altitude |
1800m MSL |
|
| Endurance |
1.2 hrs |
|
| Radius of Operation |
60 km |
|
The pilot control unit provides the operator with the ability to control the UAV manually at any time, and return to the autonomous mission. Directional commands may be transmitted to the UAV's onboard navigation computer via a joystick. A control screen is used to select the flight mode (i.e. vertical take-off and landing, automatic mode, manual mode, and return-to-home). Flight status data are displayed on the control panel's LCD screen.
| Fuel |
Jet A1 or K1 Kerosene |
|
| Power plant |
20HP two turbo-jet engines |
|
| Flight Control |
Fully autonomous takeoff, waypoint navigation and landing |
|
The system's software architecture allows the UAV to be handed over between control stations during flight, thus expanding operational footprint by bypassing obstacles which may interfere with the datalink's line-of-sight. Remote data terminals are also available, to allow tactical personnel to view payload imagery and flight data in real-time during missions.
|
