BirdBrain -- An autopilot for soaring UAVs (beta)
Since the late 1990's there have been a growing number of interesting unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) projects published, but only a handful of these have aimed at developing autonomous soaring models capable of finding and utilising thermal updrafts (or indeed any sources of lift) in order to stay aloft for an extended flight time. The most well-known and referenced studies in the latter field of research are probably those by J. Wharington; K.G. Egan; Michael J. Allen; and Dan Edwards respectively.
Our own humble attempt described here aims simply at presenting an autopilot system that stabilise an inherently semi-stable two-channel model glider when put into a "robotic" mode. It should then either (1) attempt a straight glide in a predetermined direction (typically into the prevailing wind) if there is no usable lift to be found, or (2) circle and drift with the wind whenever an updraft is detected. The guidance and positioning (i.e. navigation) algorithms necessary to effectively centre in the lift in an optimal way remain the object of future development, and hence is beyond the scope of this primary study. Presently a simple programmatic circling behaviour will have to do as "proof of concept".