Development and Testing of a Network-Centric, Multi-UAV Command and Control Scheme Using a Variable Autonomy Control System (VACS)

摘要

A simplified command and control scheme was developed to reduce the cost and complexity of managing and controlling UAVs using a Variable Autonomy Control System (VACS). VACS allows for autonomous route following capability while allowing dynamic real-time control to deviate from pre-planned routes. This degree of flexibility permits the accomplishment of a wide variety of tasks, while reducing human workload requirements significantly below that of existing UAV systems. A network-centric approach to communications facilitates simultaneous control of multiple UAVs from a single command and control station. The network-centric command and control scheme allows a single operator to effectively manage and employ multiple vehicles, as opposed to multiple operators per vehicle, thus reducing the need for large amounts of equipment and personnel. Furthermore, the VACS design facilitates manned and unmanned systems interoperability. This paper describes the system's architecture and design, as well as the system's capabilities, which were evaluated recently in a series of flight demonstrations.