DATUM With Hybrid Engine And Ground Control Station (GCS)

Synopsis:

The Detachable Aviation Transporter Unmanned/Manned Multirotor Vehicle (DATUM) is a versatile modular aerial vehicle capable of customization with a payload capability of up to 90kg. It runs on a Hybrid Engine Fuel Management (HEFM) system that enables it to have a flight time of at least 30 mins. One of the main objectives of this project is to enable the vehicle to take part in the Boeing GoFly Competition. Hence it must conform to all of the competition requirements. To support and enhance fly-ability a Ground Control Station (GCS) was also built.

Description:

DATUM is a versatile modular aerial vehicle capable of customization to suit the requirements of a user. It is capable of carrying a payload of up to 90kg. Its modular design allows it to perform various functions such as aerial farming, filming, freight transportation as well as personnel transportation using a 12/18 motor configuration. It is designed to improve maintainability, allowing for the ease of replacement of components. Redundancy is provided by the additional motors allowing 2 motors to fail without compromising DATUM's operation.

An issue that affects all current UAVs is limited flight time due to limitations in battery technology. DATUM overcomes this issue with the implementation of a Hybrid Engine Fuel Management (HEFM) system. HEFM relies on a generator to enhance the power capacity of its twin battery system on board. Operation of the HEFM system is fully autonomous. It is self-governed by an Arduino System which obtains parametrical information from inbuilt sensors.

It also comes with its own Ground Control station (GCS) that controls the vehicle with a Hands-On Throttle-And-Stick (HOTAS) system. This GCS can also be used to control other drone systems, making it very versatile. The GCS also contains features such as autopilot, GPS tracking, etc.

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