Demonstration of a Control Algorithm for Autonomous Aerial Refueling (Project 'No Gyro')

摘要

The report presents the results of tests to demonstrate a control algorithm for autonomous aerial refueling. The formation flight control system consisted of an attitude system, a positioning system, a data link, and a controller. Attitude information on the lead aircraft (C-12C) was measured with a Micro-Electro-Mechanical System Inertial Measurement Unit (MEMS IMU). Position information was provided with a student-designed differential GPS system (including an antenna, receiver, and small computer for processing on both aircraft), which passed information by datalink through antennas installed on both aircraft. Laptops on both aircraft displayed selected parameters and system information, and a pilot display on the Learjet provided current and commanded position information. The trail aircraft (Calspan LJ-25 Learjet) had a student designed control algorithm installed in the Variable Stability System (VSS) that scheduled the flight control surfaces and the throttles during close formation flight (fully autonomous control), while both aircraft simulated normal aerial refueling operations.