UAS and MANNED AIRCRAFT AUTOMONY

Module 6 focused on detect and avoid technology and UAS automation and autonomy.  14 CFR 91.113 is the focal point of Detect and Avoid (DAA), as it spells out the means for “see and avoid” and “well clear” compliance for both manned and unmanned aircraft (Brooks & Cook, 2016).  Sensor fusion and advanced algorithms allow DAA systems to remain “well clear” of other traffic through self-separation (SS) and avoid colliding with another aircraft by employing collision avoidance (CA) techniques.  DAA has 11 sub-functions; depending upon the role the pilot plays within the system architecture determines the level of control he or she possesses within the DAA process.  For example, an automatic DAA system can manage the cycle from target detection to return to course without pilot intervention (Brooks & Cook, 2016).          

For UAS to fully integrate in the NAS there must be an adequate level of automation for the appropriate operation conducted.  Automation can range from the operator controlling all aspects of the flight such as data monitoring, calculations, and decisions – low level automation, to full autonomy, where the machine executes computations and decision-making for all modes of flight (Elliot & Stewart, 2011).    

When it comes to manned versus unmanned operations, I do not believe there to be different considerations.  Take 14 CFR 91.113 for example, it states that no matter the type of flight operation, the aircraft operator is responsible to maintain vigilance as to “see and avoid other aircraft” (Brooks & Cook, 2016).  Whether this is accomplished by human eye or electronically by sensors, compliance with the regulation can be fulfilled.  

It is hard to judge if the aviation industry is currently using an adequate amount of automation.  I believe there should be balance between the degree of automation and amount of control the pilot retains within the system.  The goal of automation is to reduce workload, improve precision, and enhance overall system performance, yet commercial airlines and unmanned aircraft continue to crash even though equipped with advanced and sophisticated automation.  It is hard for me to determine the disconnect.  Elliot and Stewart (2011) mentions the struggle between system designers and system operators when dealing with automation.  From the looks of it, it may be a vicious circle the aviation industry accepts. 

References

Brooks, D., & Cook, S. P. (2016). Detect and Avoid. In D. M. Marshall, R. K. Barnhart, E. Shappee, & T. Most (Eds.), Introduction to unmanned aircraft systems (pp. 298-314). New York, NY: CRC Press.

Elliot, L. J., & Stewart, B. (2011). Automation and Autonomy in Unmanned Systems. In D. M. Marshall, R. K. Barnhart, S. B. Hottman, & M. T. Most (Eds.), Introduction to unmanned aircraft systems (pp. 100-117). New York, NY: CRC Press.