Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Guide: Exploring Designs, Operations, Regulations, and Economics

Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Guide: Exploring Designs, Operations, Regulations, and Economics

Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Guide: Exploring Designs, Operations, Regulations, and Economics

Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Guide: Exploring Designs, Operations, Regulations, and Economics

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Overview

The utility and benefits of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) are emerging and being recognized across the aviation industry. While this technology is not new, the ability to support domestic public and private operators is becoming better understood and opening up new uses to government organizations and commercial enterprise. Analysis of the unmanned aviation market indicates that small UAS (sUAS) will become the most prevalent and affordable form of unmanned aircraft available, featuring technology developed by contributors ranging from DIY and hobby model aircraft communities to defense contracting.

This book will help readers understand what a drone or UAS is, what forms are available (including multirotor, fixed-wing, and hybrid types), to make well-informed decisions regarding purchase and use. Readers will learn how sUAS and their various configuration options can be used to address or support evolving business needs. Ultimately, readers will have enough information to formulate a plan to acquire necessary certification approvals and operate sUAS in a safe, efficient, and effective manner.

Beginning with the history of UAS and ending with how to prepare for the future of this fast-paced and innovative industry, this book contains descriptions of typical sUAS architecture, related technology, common uses, and suggested safety practices, while also providing a narrative to help you determine the most appropriate path forward through complex legal, business, operational, and support considerations. Understanding how these pieces fit together, from the technical and legal perspectives, will shape your own strategy for the safe, efficient, and effective use of this "(r)evolutionary" technology.

The authors developed this book to share critical background, concepts, guidance, and lessons learned from their collective experience as researchers, operators, and academic instructors to dispel common myths and provide a starting point to explore how sUAS can be applied to solve challenges and support economic pursuits. Written for experienced aviators, as well as those new to aviation and operating in the National Airspace System (NAS). Illustrated extensively throughout, each chapter concludes with review questions for classroom and self-study use; glossary and index included. This book provides a solid foundation for keeping up with this fast moving and exciting aviation field.


Product Details

ISBN-13: 9781619543966
Publisher: Aviation Supplies & Academics, Inc.
Publication date: 11/06/2017
Sold by: Barnes & Noble
Format: eBook
Pages: 285
File size: 220 MB
Note: This product may take a few minutes to download.
Age Range: 17 Years

About the Author

Dr. Brent Terwilliger is an Assistant Professor of Aeronautics and the Program Chair for the M.S. in Unmanned Systems degree at the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU), Worldwide Campus, College of Aeronautics, in Daytona Beach, Florida. He holds a Ph.D. in Business Administration from Northcentral University, a master's of aeronautical science and B.S. in Aerospace Studies from ERAU, and has more than a decade of experience in defense contracting.

Dr. David Ison is an Assistant Professor of Aeronautics and the Research Chair of ERAU, Worldwide Campus, College of Aeronautics. He holds a Ph.D. in Educational Studies/Higher Education Leadership/Aviation Higher Education from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, a master's of aeronautical science from ERAU, and a B.S. in Aviation Management from Auburn University.

Dr. John Robbins is an Assistant Professor and the Program Coordinator for the B.S in Unmanned Aircraft System Science degree at the ERAU Daytona Beach campus. He holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural and Biological Engineering from the University of Florida (UF), master's in aeronautical science from ERAU, and a B.A. in Geology from UF.

Dr. Dennis Vincenzi is an Assistant Professor of Aeronautics and the Department Chair of the ERAU, Worldwide Campus, College of Aeronautics, Department of Aeronautics, Undergraduate Studies. He received his Ph.D. in Human Factors Psychology in 1998 from the University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.

Table of Contents

List of Illustrations viii

Foreword xiii

Acknowledgments xiv

About the Authors xv

Introduction xvi

Abbreviations xviii

Chapter 1 History of UAS: Where Did They Come From and Where Are They Headed? 1

Introduction 1

Early Predecessors 1

Unmanned Aircraft Development 8

From Tactical to Transformational Technology 21

Transition from UAV to UAS 22

Open Source to Crowdfunding 23

Related Technology and Innovative Development 24

Regulations Set the Stage for the (R)evolution 26

Chapter 2 Application of sUAS: Understanding Uses 29

Introduction 29

Common Uses 29

Recreation and Hobby 32

Precision Agriculture 36

Public Safety and Service 39

Communications 44

Aerial Filming 45

Cargo Transport 46

Environmental Monitoring 47

Training and Education 47

Research 48

Emerging Uses and Challenges 49

On the Horizon 50

Chapter 3 Variety of Design: Exploring the Technological Possibilities 51

Introduction 51

Platform Design Configurations 51

Important Terms and Concepts 52

Platform Types 54

Categories and Designations 78

Platform Selection Considerations 86

System Composition 86

Major Elements and Equipment 87

Aerial Element 88

Payload 109

Ground-Based Command, Control, and Communication (C3) 114

Human Element 120

Support Equipment 128

Chapter 4 Legal, Environmental, and Operational Considerations: A Map to Navigate the Maze 129

Introduction 129

Regulatory Framework 129

Maintaining Safety in the National Airspace System 131

Model Aircraft and sUAS 139

Approved Operation of UAS 144

Regulatory Policies and Resources 155

Operating Environment 159

Visibility 159

Altitude 163

Hazards and Obstacles 163

Operational Environments 163

Weather 172

Environmental Considerations 172

SUAS Operation 173

General Aeronautical Knowledge 173

Fixed-Wing Flight 178

VTOL Flight 180

Remote Operation 180

Remote Pilot-in-Command and Visual Observer Coordination 181

Autonomous (Automatic) Operation 183

Geofencing 183

Data Capture and Processing 183

Operational Planning end Preparation 183

Schedule, Coordinate, and Conduct Operations 194

Hour Logging and Reporting 200

Maintenance, Calibration, and Diagnosis 201

SUAS Operational Considerations 201

Chapter 5 Business of Unmanned Aviation: From Agencies to Startups 203

Introduction 203

UAS stakeholders 203

Organizational Structures 204

Stakeholder Roles and Collaboration 212

Business Opportunity and Development 212

Starting a Business 213

In Field Employment 215

Acquisition, Support, and Cost Planning 216

Incorporating SUAS Operations 229

Growth Areas and Challenges 231

Chapter 6 Preparing for the Future: Accurate Information Makes All the Difference 233

Introduction 233

Finding Information 233

Regulatory Information 234

UAS Test Sites and Center of Excellence 236

Government-Sponsored, Advocacy, and Public Outreach Organizations 237

UAS-Related News 238

User Communities and Networks 238

Journals/Scientific Publishing 239

Conferences, Symposiums, and Events 240

Insurance Providers 241

Legal Support and Representation 241

Other Web-based Resources 242

UAS Reports and Documents 243

Author-Produced UAS Materials 244

Figure Credits 247

Index 257

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