Operational Signatures for Control Algorithms Improvement in Optionally Manned Vehicle TAERO

The global demand for optionally manned platforms has increased due to the need for extended functionality in diverse operational environments. In this study, the importance of operational signatures for control algorithms improvement in unmanned mode in such vehicles is discussed. Developed special-purpose manned-unmanned TAERO platform as well as control with installed equipment, including additional sensors necessary for executing unmanned missions, are introduced. Challenges related to carry out missions in unstructured terrain for optionally manned platform are presented The role of onboard computational unit for recording and analyzing parameters and signals in the operational environment in order to develop control strategies supporting the unmanned mode are indicated. Examples of recorded data from both manned and unmanned operations are provided highlighting relevance real-time signal analysis. The correlation between vehicle location and the GNSS system is shown to be a valuable tool for validating missions in diverse conditions. Future research directions regarding control algorithm improvement are indicated.