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Article
Publication date: 26 February 2020

Javier A. Pérez-Castán, Fernando Gómez Comendador, Álvaro Rodríguez-Sanz, Rosa M. Arnaldo Valdés and Jose Felix Alonso-Alarcon

This paper aims to assess the implications in safety levels by the integration of remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS). The goal is to calculate the number of RPAS that can…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to assess the implications in safety levels by the integration of remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS). The goal is to calculate the number of RPAS that can jointly operate with conventional aircraft regarding conflict risk, without exceeding current safety levels.

Design/methodology/approach

This approach benchmarks a calculated level of safety (CLS) with a target level of safety (TLS). Monte Carlo (MC) simulations quantify the TLS based on the current operation of conventional aircraft. Then, different experiments calculate the CLS associated with combinations of conventional aircraft and RPAS. MC simulations are performed based on probabilistic distributions of aircraft performances, entry times and geographical distribution. The safety levels are based on a conflict risk model because the safety metrics are the average number of conflicts and average conflict duration.

Findings

The results provide restrictions to the number of RPAS that can jointly operate with conventional aircraft. The TLS is quantified for four conventional aircraft. MC simulations confirm that the integration of RPAS demands a reduction in the total number of aircraft. The same number of RPAS than conventional aircraft shows an increase over 90% average number of conflicts and 300% average conflict time.

Research limitations/implications

The methodology is applied to one flight level of en-route airspace without considering climbing or descending aircraft.

Originality/value

This paper is one of the most advanced investigations performed to quantify the number of RPAS that can be safely integrated into non-segregated airspace, which is one of the challenges for the forthcoming integration of RPAS. Particularly, Europe draws to allow operating RPAS and conventional aircraft in non-segregated airspace by 2025, but this demanding perspective entails a thorough analysis of operational and safety aspects involved.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 92 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 December 2018

Roberta Fusaro, Nicole Viola, Sara Cresto Aleina and Giovanni Antonio Di Meo

This paper aims to suggest feasible solutions to overcome the problem of unmanned aerial vehicles integration within the existing airspace.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to suggest feasible solutions to overcome the problem of unmanned aerial vehicles integration within the existing airspace.

Design/methodology/approach

It envisages innovative time-based separation procedures that will enhance the integration in the future air traffic management (ATM) system of next generation of large remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS). 4D navigation and dynamic mobile area concepts, both proposed in the framework of Single European Sky ATM Research program, are brought together to hypothesize innovative time-based separation procedures aiming at promoting integration of RPAS in the future ATM system.

Findings

Benefits of proposed procedures, mainly evaluated in terms of volume reduction of segregated airspace, are quantitatively analyzed on the basis of realistic operational scenarios focusing on monitoring activities in both nominal and emergency conditions. Eventually, the major limits of time-based separation for RPAS are investigated.

Practical implications

The implementation of the envisaged procedures will be a key enabler in RPAS integration in future ATM integration.

Originality/value

In the current ATM scenario, separation of RPAS from air traffic is ensured by segregating a large amount of airspace areas with fixed dimensions, dramatically limiting the activities of these vehicles.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 91 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 31 July 2023

Daniel Lichoń, Andrzej Robert Majka and Tomasz Lis

The purpose of this paper was to elaborate the performance model of the remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) which was destined for simulations of the construction…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper was to elaborate the performance model of the remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) which was destined for simulations of the construction characteristics, airspeeds and trajectory of flight in the controlled, non-segregated airspace according to the standard instrument departure and arrival procedures (SIDs and STARs).

Design/methodology/approach

This study used systems engineering approach: decomposition of RPAS performance model into components, relations and its connection with components of controlled the airspace system. Fast-time simulations (FTS) method, which included investigation of many scenarios of the system work, minimizing the number of input variables and low computing power demand, is also used.

Findings

Performance envelope of many fixed-wing RPAS was not published. The representative RPAS geometry configuration was feasible to implement. Power unit model and aerodynamic model needed to be accommodated to RPAS category. The range of aircraft minimum drag coefficient differed in the investigated range of take-off mass and wing loading.

Research limitations/implications

Fixed-wing RPAS of small and medium categories cover take-off mass (25–450 kg), wing loading (40–900 N/m2) and power loading (8–40 W/N).

Practical implications

This is a research on integration of the RPAS in the controlled, non-segregated airspace. The results of the work may be used in broadening the knowledge of the RPAS characteristics from the perspective of operators, designers and air traffic services.

Originality/value

The elaborated performance model of the RPAS used the minimum number of three input variables (take-off mass, wing loading and power loading) in identification of the complete RPAS characteristics, i.e. construction features (aerodynamic, propulsion and loads) and flight parameters (airspeeds and flight trajectory).

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 95 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 10 June 2021

Monica Arranz Moneo, Javier Alberto Pérez-Castán, Victor Fernando Gomez Comendador, Álvaro Rodríguez-Sanz and Rosa María Arnaldo Valdes

This paper aims to analyse remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) integration in non-segregated terminal airspace. This work aims to identify the potential airspace volumes where…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) integration in non-segregated terminal airspace. This work aims to identify the potential airspace volumes where a free operation of RPAS can be developed by analysing the airspace design of the terminal airspace.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology considers five crucial elements of the airspace design: obstacles, prohibited, restricted and dangerous zones, aerodrome zones, departing and arriving procedures and visual corridors. Free operation of RPAS is performed in those airspace volumes that no interaction with instrumental flight rules (IFR) flights is expected. Free RPAS airspace volumes are separated through current IFR separation minima.

Findings

The results show there is a significant amount of available airspace that RPAS can operate without interaction with conventional aircraft. The more significant risks are allocated by the limitations imposed by departing and arriving procedures in the terminal airspace.

Research limitations/implications

The methodology is applied to medium-dense terminal airspace. This work assumes RPAS can perform visual or instrumental flights.

Originality/value

RPAS is a capital issue for the majority of aviation actors. This work underlay the further development of a methodology regarding airspace design for RPAS in a terminal control area.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 94 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 November 2018

Javier A. Pérez-Castán, Fernando Gómez Comendador, Álvaro Rodríguez-Sanz, Rosa M. Arnaldo Valdés and Jaime Torrecilla

The purpose of this paper is to focus on the development of conflict-resolution algorithms between Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) and conventional aircraft. The goal of…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on the development of conflict-resolution algorithms between Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) and conventional aircraft. The goal of the conflict-resolution algorithm is to estimate the minimum protection distance (MPD) which is required to avoid a potential conflict.

Design/methodology/approach

The conflict-resolution algorithms calculate the last location at which an RPAS must start climbing to avoid a separation minima infringement. The RPAS maneuvers to prevent the conventional aircraft based on the kinematic equations. The approach selects two parameters to model the conflict-geometry: the path-intersection angle and the Rate of Climb (ROCD).

Findings

Results confirmed that the aircraft pair flying in opposition was the worst scenario because the MPD reached its maximum value. The best value of the MPD is about 12 Nautical Miles to ensure a safe resolution of a potential conflict. Besides, variations of the ROCD concluded that the relation between the ROCD and the MPD is not proportional.

Research limitations/implications

The primary limitation is that the conflict-resolution algorithms are designed in a theoretical framework without bearing in mind other factors such as communications, navigation capacity, wind and pilot errors among others. Further work should introduce these concepts to determine how the MPD varies and affects air traffic safety. Moreover, the relation between an ROCD requirement and the MPD will have an impact on regulations.

Practical implications

The non-linear relation between the MPD and the ROCD could be the pillar to define a standardized MPD in the future for RPAS systematic integration. To accomplish this standard, RPAS could have to fulfil a requirement of minimum ROCD until a specified flight level.

Originality/value

This paper is the first approach to quantify the Minimum Protection Distance between RPAS and conventional aircraft, and it can serve the aeronautical community to define new navigation requirements for RPAS.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 91 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 April 2020

Daniel Lichoń

This work presents the part of the research in the integration of the remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) in non-segregated airspace. The purpose of this study is to…

100

Abstract

Purpose

This work presents the part of the research in the integration of the remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) in non-segregated airspace. The purpose of this study is to elaborate the reference shape of the Standard Instrument Arrivals (STARs) procedures of controlled airports. The STARs parameters are unique for the aerodromes and depend on navigational aids (NAVAIDs), manoeuvres and aircraft categories. Therefore, the elaboration of reference shapes was advisable in the context of RPAS integration research.

Design/methodology/approach

The models were based on the procedure design guidelines by International Civil Aviation Organization. The statistics of existing STARs were prepared using Aeronautical Information Publications to determine the representative procedural parameters. Construction of procedural shapes required to define the nominal flight path and tolerance areas.

Findings

In statistics, the standard deviation of distances was below the determined reference mean values, thus the models were convergent with existing procedures.

Research limitations/implications

The modelling was limited to initial, intermediate, final and missed approach segments. Arrival segment was not modelled. NAVAIDs include Instrument Landing System Category 1 (in final and missed approach) and very high-frequency omni-directional ranging or global navigation satellite systems (in initial and intermediate approach segments).

Practical implications

Prepared models may be used in research in the integration of the new types of aerial vehicles in existing air traffic management systems.

Originality/value

The reference STARs possess commonly used procedural manoeuvres (straight-in, turn, racetrack and base turn) and different NAVAIDs. The parameters of approach segments were determined as representative of the existing procedures. Moreover, the models are suitable to place at arbitrary origin and runway axis bearing.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 92 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

Content available
Article
Publication date: 15 July 2019

Abstract

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 91 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Article
Publication date: 26 June 2021

Tamer Savas, Oznur Usanmaz, Ozlem Sahin, Ertan Çınar and Murat Karaderili

The study aims to design a new route model for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to integrate them into non-segregated airspace.

Abstract

Purpose

The study aims to design a new route model for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to integrate them into non-segregated airspace.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed route model was assessed and validated through real-time simulations.

Findings

The comparison results of baseline and proposed route model show that a reduction of 38% and 41% in the total flight time and total flight distance were obtained in favour of the proposed model, respectively.

Practical implications

The proposed route model can be applied by airspace designers and UAV users to perform safe and efficient landing in non-segregated airspace.

Originality/value

In this study, a new proposed route model is constructed for UAVs. Quantitative results, using a real-time simulation method, are achieved in terms of flight distance and flight time.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 93 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 April 2017

Peter Tatham, Catherine Ball, Yong Wu and Peter Diplas

While the use of long-endurance remotely piloted aircraft systems (LE-RPAS) is frequently associated with military operations, their core capabilities of long-range, low-cost and…

Abstract

Purpose

While the use of long-endurance remotely piloted aircraft systems (LE-RPAS) is frequently associated with military operations, their core capabilities of long-range, low-cost and high-quality optics and communications systems have considerable potential benefit in supporting the work of humanitarian logisticians. The purpose of this paper is, therefore, to demonstrate how LE-RPAS could be used to improve the logistic response to a rapid onset disaster.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the response to the Cyclone Pam that struck Vanuatu in March 2015 as an example, this paper provides an overview of how LE-RPAS could be used to support the post-disaster needs assessment and subsequent response processes. In addition, it provides a high-level route map to develop the people, process and technology requirements that would support the operational deployment of the LE-RPAS capabilities.

Findings

On the basis of the analysis of the published literature and the resultant assessment of the benefits of LE-RPAS to support humanitarian logistic (HL) operations, it is concluded that a formal “proof of concept” trial should be undertaken, and the results be made available to the humanitarian community.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is conceptual in nature, but has been developed through an analysis of the literature relating to remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) and HLs. A route map through which the paper’s conclusions can be validated is also offered.

Practical implications

LE-RPAS have great potential to provide a swifter understanding of the impact of a disaster, particularly those where the location is remote from the main centres of population. This would allow the affected country’s National Disaster Management Organisation, together with those of supporting countries, to react more efficiently and effectively. In particular, it would allow a swifter transition from a “guess-based” push approach to one that more accurately reflects the disaster’s impact – i.e. a pull-based logistic response.

Social implications

Given the military genesis of RPAS, it will be important to ensure that those engaged in their operation are sensitive to the implications of this. In particular, it will be essential to ensure that any humanitarian operations involving RPAS are undertaken in an ethical way that respects, for example, the privacy and safety of the affected population.

Originality/value

While there is some emerging discussion on the humanitarian-related use of RPAS in the literature, this generally reflects the operation of small aircraft with limited range and payload capabilities. Useful though such RPAS unquestionably are, this paper expands the discussion of how such systems can support the humanitarian logistician by considering the benefits and challenges of operating long-endurance aircraft.

Details

Journal of Humanitarian Logistics and Supply Chain Management, vol. 7 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-6747

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 October 2019

Hamed Golizadeh, M. Reza Hosseini, Igor Martek, David Edwards, Masoud Gheisari, Saeed Banihashemi and Jingxiao Zhang

Remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) systems have emerged as an established tool within the construction industry. Concurrent with this trend has been the rise in research on RPA…

Abstract

Purpose

Remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) systems have emerged as an established tool within the construction industry. Concurrent with this trend has been the rise in research on RPA, establishing this as a new field of study within the construction management domain. What is needed now is an assessment of the current state of research in this emerging discipline – its strengths and weaknesses – by which future research on RPA in construction may be guided. The purpose of this paper is to address this need.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 59 peer-reviewed journal articles covering RPAs within the construction domain were systematically reviewed using a mixed-methods approach, utilizing qualitative-scientometric analyses techniques.

Findings

The results reveal a field of study in its fledgling stage, with a limited number of experts operating somewhat in isolation, from a limited number of institutions. Key publication outlets are identified, with the main focus of research being in the technical areas of remote sensing, photogrammetry and image processing.

Practical implications

The study benefits researchers and industry practitioners alike. For researchers, the identified gaps reveal areas of high priority in future research. For construction companies, particularly small to medium-sized businesses, the study raises awareness of the latest developments and potential applicability of RPAs in the industry.

Originality/value

The study exposes what is missing from current research: a broader consideration of organizational adjustments needed to accommodate RPA usage, economic analyses and impediments to wider acceptance.

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