Advanced Affordable Avionics Architecture for UAVs

摘要

The transition from the current Advanced Concept Technology Demonstration (ACTD) ISR UAV programs into viable future Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) UAV programs and high production operational systems requires the development of more affordable technology solutions. A major contributor to UAV affordability is the Avionics Suite. Since the UAV ACTDs have not included funds or schedule for a significant investment in avionics, their avionics designs are point solutions, without applicability to or commonality with other UAV avionics designs. This narrow focus makes them unsuitable as the basis for future UAV avionics systems. This shortcoming validates a requirement for the definition of an open, Advanced Affordable Avionics Architecture that incorporates the reconfigurability that allows it to support multiple Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions. This architecture would enable more rapid development of the ISR UAV family and lower the avionics portion of Total Ownership Cost (TOC). The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Information Directorate, in conjunction with Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company -Palmdale, has initiated an effort to define this Advanced Affordable Avionics Architecture that could be utilized for the Tactical (TUAV) and High Altitude Endurance ISR (HAE ISR) UAV platforms. This effort has proceeded through requirements definition, technology assessment, and architecture definition. A benefits analysis will be completed during the remainder of FY00. This paper describes the results of those efforts.