UAV Autopilot Integration and Testing

Abstract

The development of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platform and the integration of avionics for a search and rescue UAV is examined. The project follows the guidelines for the UAV Challenge - Outback Rescue which is an international aerospace competition. The selection process for a commercial autopilot and avionics package is described. The selected system is integrated into a standard hobby remote control aircraft and configured for autonomous flight and navigation. The autopilot system must be tuned to the aircraft platform and flight characteristics. Flight tests are described for a GPS-based grid search pattern.