UAV Sensor Controller for Manned Aircraft

In Phase II, Kutta builds a technical readiness level (TRL) 7 prototype based on thorough Phase I research. The Modular Unmanned Aerial System Controller (MUAS-C) allows STANAG level three and three plus control from the cockpit of any manned aircraft that contains the required UAS communication and downlink systems. During Phase I, MUAS-C was optimized based on quantitative human machine interface (HMI) testing and qualitative assessments of Army aviators. The Phase I data results in a design that eliminates repetitive strain injury (RSI) when controlling a UAS payload and one that leverages existing Department of Defense (DoD) technology. In Phase II the system is flight tested with real UAS payloads and qualified through high-fidelity hardware-in-the loop simulations. Based on the testing results, the design and embedded software are further refined to produce an optimal controller that meets the rugged demands of a hot, dusty, noisy, pitching, rolling, and vibratory environment experienced by piloted aircraft during combat. By designing an optimal controller at a high TRL in Phase II and leveraging existing proprietary and DoD technology, the certification costs of the entire system are significantly reduced, paving the way for rapid integration and delivery to the warfighter.