Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Guide : Exploring Designs, Operations, Regulations, and Economics

The utility and benefits of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) are emerging and being recognized across the aviation industry. While this technology is not new, the ability to support domestic public and private operators is becoming better understood and opening up new uses to government organizations and commercial enterprise. Analysis of the unmanned aviation market indicates that small UAS (sUAS) will become the most prevalent and affordable form of unmanned aircraft available, featuring technology developed by contributors ranging from DIY and hobby model aircraft communities to defense contracting. This book will help readers understand what a drone or UAS is, what forms are available (including multirotor, fixed-wing, and hybrid types), to make well-informed decisions regarding purchase and use. Readers will learn how sUAS and their various configuration options can be used to address or support evolving business needs. Ultimately, readers will have enough information to formulate a plan to acquire necessary certification approvals and operate sUAS in a safe, efficient, and effective manner. Beginning with the history of UAS and ending with how to prepare for the future of this fast-paced and innovative industry, this book contains descriptions of typical sUAS architecture, related technology, common uses, and suggested safety practices, while also providing a narrative to help you determine the most appropriate path forward through complex legal, business, operational, and support considerations. Understanding how these pieces fit together, from the technical and legal perspectives, will shape your own strategy for the safe, efficient, and effective use of this "(r)evolutionary" technology. The authors developed this book to share critical background, concepts, guidance, and lessons learned from their collective experience as researchers, operators, and academic instructors to dispel common myths and provide a starting point to explore how sUAS can be applied to solve challenges and support economic pursuits. Written for experienced aviators, as well as those new to aviation and operating in the National Airspace System (NAS). Illustrated extensively throughout, each chapter concludes with review questions for classroom and self-study use; glossary and index included. This book provides a solid foundation for keeping up with this fast moving and exciting aviation field. Cover 1 Copyright 5 Contents 6 Illustrations 9 Foreword 14 Acknowledgments 15 About the Authors 16 Introduction 17 Abbreviations 19 Chapter1 - History of UAS: where did they come from and where are they headed? 22 Introduction 22 Early Predecessors 22 Unmanned Aircraft Development 29 From Tactical to Transformational Technology 42 Transition from UAV to UAS 43 Open Source to Crowdfunding 44 Related Technology and Innovative Development 45 Regulations Set the Stage for the (R)evolution 47 Chapter 2 - Application of sUAS: Understanding Uses 50 Introduction 50 Common Uses 50 Recreation and Hobby 53 Precision Agriculture 57 Public Safety and Service 60 Communications 65 Aerial Filming 66 Cargo Transport 67 Environmental Monitoring 68 Training and Education 68 Research 69 Emerging Uses and Challenges 70 On the Horizon 71 Chapter 3 - Variety of Design: Exploring the Technological Possibilities 72 Introduction 72 Platform Design Configurations 72 Important Terms and Concepts 73 Platform Types 75 Categories and Designations 99 Platform Selection Considerations 107 System Composition 107 Major Elements and Equipment 108 Aerial Element 109 Payload 130 Ground-Based Command, Control, and Communications (C3) 135 Human Element 141 Support Equipment 144 Chapter 4 - Legal, Environmental, and Operational considerations: a Map to Navigate the Maze 150 Introduction 150 Regulatory Framework 150 Maintaining Safety in the National Airspace System 152 Model Aircraft and sUAS 160 Approved Operation of UAS 165 Regulatory Policies and Resources 176 Operating Environment 180 Visibility 180 Altitude 184 Hazards and Obstacles 184 Operational Environments 184 Weather 193 Environmental Considerations 193 SUAS Operations 194 General Aeronautical Knowledge 194 Fixed-Wing Flight 199 VTOL Flight 1 Remote Operation 1 Remote Pilot-in-Command and Visual Observer Coordination 202 Autonomous (Automatic) Operation 204 Geofencing 204 Data Capture and processing 204 Operational Planning and Preparation 204 Schedule, Coordinate, and Conduct Operations 215 Hour Logging and Reporting 221 Maintenance, Calibration, and Diagnosis 222 sUAS Operational Considerations 222 Chapter 5 - Business of Unmanned Aviation from Agencies to Startups 224 Introduction 224 UAS Stakeholders 224 Organizational Structures 225 Stakeholder Roles and Collaboration 233 Business Opportunity and Development 233 Starting a Business 234 In Field Employment 236 Acquisition, Support, and Cost Planning 237 Incorporating sUAS Operations 250 Growth Areas and Challenges 252 Chapter 6 - Preparing for the Future: Accurate Information Makes All the Difference 254 Introduction 254 Finding Information 254 Regulatory Information 255 UAS Test Sites and Center of Excellence 257 Government-Sponsored, Advocacy, and Public Outreach organizations 258 UAS-Related News 259 User Communities and Networks 259 Journals/Scientific Publishing 260 Conferences, Symposiums, and Events 261 Insurance Providers 262 Legal Support and Representation 262 Other Web-Based Resources 263 UAS Reports and Documents 264 Author-Produced UAS Materials 265 Figure Credits 268 Index 278