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
