UAV Path Following for Constant Line-of-Sight

This work provides algorithms for flight path guidance and synchronous camera angles to observe a target. The observation of the target is affected by the environment, maximum aircraft performance, and camera limits. Analytic expressions are derived for trajectories required for constant line-of-sight orientation relative to the aircraft. A guidance law based on ‘good helmsman’ behavior is implemented. An observer is used to estimate wind data, which is used to orient the trajectories about the target. Results are demonstrated in simulated maneuvers with exposure to variable wind and turbulence.