Feasibility Studies for VTOL UAV Autonomous Operations with the Possibility of Ship Board Auto Recovery Using Simulation Techniques

The purpose of this Office of Naval Research sponsored Future Naval Capabilities UAV project is to demonstrate the feasibility to automatically signal the initiation of UAV descent. The objective is to recover the UAV on-board a moving vessel within reasonable safety margins regardless of the seaway. The Energy Index, the operative component of the Landing Period Designator, identifies quiescent periods to initiate aircraft descent based on aircraft deck limit definitions. Dynamic Interface simulation provides the physical information from which initial deck limits might be derived. Energy Index quiescent indications for UAV recovery opportunities are presented outside of current operating limits. A brief synopsis of the theory and calculation of the ship motion simulation and Energy Index programs, are discussed. The use of flight simulator to forecast physical deck motion and deck motion limits, is discussed. UAV flight test programs using simulation, are described. Undercarriage deflection to encountered deck forces and aircraft stability, were calculated. Using Launch and Recovery "rondelles", the deck limits at specific ship's speeds may be identified. Impacts on the proposed deck limits, are discussed. Percent improvement of operational availability is demonstrated. The results using simulated data are compared to those recorded during dynamic interface testing. Good correlation is shown between the deck limits calculated by simulation with that recorded at sea. The index performed to specification showing no exceptions or failures. System components are presented and a short discussion of the UAV landing profile, is offered.