Small unmanned aircraft systems guide : exploring designs, operations, regulations, and economics / Brent Terwilliger [and three others].

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Terwilliger, Brent, author.

Ison, David C., author.

Robbins, John, 1979- author.

Vincenzi, Dennis A., author.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Drone aircraft.

Drone aircraft--History.

Physical Description:

1 online resource (xx, 262 pages) : illustrations

Edition:

1st ed.

Place of Publication:

Aviation Supplies & Academics, Inc 2017

Summary:

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.

Contents:

History of UAS: where did they come from and where are they headed?

Introduction

Early predecessors

Unmanned aircraft development

From tactical to transformational technology

Transition from UAV to UAS

OpenSource to crowdfunding

Related technology and innovative development

Regulation set the stage for the (r)evolution

Application of sUAS: understanding Uses

Common Uses

Recreation and hobby

Precision agriculture

Public safety and service

Communications

Aerial filming

Cargo transport

Environmental monitoring

Training and education

Research

Emerging Uses and challenges

On the horizon

Variety of design: exploring the technological possibilities

Platform design configurations

Platform types

Categories and designations

System composition

Major elements and equipment

Aerial element

Payload

Ground-based command, control, and communication (C3)

Human element

Support equipment

Legal, environmental, and operational considerations: a map to navigate the maze

Regulatory framework

Maintaining safety in the national airspace system

Model aircraft and sUAS

Approved operation of UAS

Regulatory policies and resources

Operating environment

Visibility

Altitude

Hazards and obstacles

Operational environments

Weather

Environmental considerations

sUAS operation

General aeronautical knowledge

Fixed-wing flight

VTOL flight

Remote operation

Pilot-in-command and visual observer coordination

Autonomous (automatic) operation

Geofencing

Data capture and processing

Operational planning and preparation

Schedule, coordinate, and conduct operations

Hour logging and reporting

Maintenance, calibration, and diagnosis

sUAS operational considerations

Business of unmanned aviation: from agencies to startups

UAS stakeholders

Organizational structures

Stakeholder roles and collaboration

Business opportunity and development

Starting a business

In field employment

Acquisition, support, and cost planning

Incorporating sUAS operations

Growth areas and challenges

Preparing for the future: accurate information makes all the difference

Finding information

Regulatory information

UAS test sites and Center of Excellence

Governmental-sponsored, Advocacy, and Public Outreach Organizations.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Description based on print version record.

ISBN:

9781619543966

1619543966

9781619543959

1619543958

OCLC:

1082343625