Development of a small UAS helicopter for remote sensing operations

This paper describes the integration process developing a UAS helicopter from single airframe to become a complete UAS platform for remote sensing applications. The airframe selected was the model AF30 from the Copterworks company. The airframe engine reliability and fuel economy have been improved adding an Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) and Capacitor Discharge Ignition (CDI) both managed by an Engine Control Unit (ECU). Finally, the integration process incorporate on-board mission computation to improve the concept of operation. The integration process and the preliminary test are also described in the paper.