Simulation framework for autonomous search and rescue UAVs

Abstract

This paper presents the capabilities of the Simcenter-based simulation framework for modeling and validating hybrid autonomous aircraft systems and flight missions. This is accomplished by modeling the drone subsystems in Simcenter Amesim, setting up the simulation scenario and sensor modeling in Simcenter Prescan, and using a Simulink-based co-simulation framework. In addition, an existing object avoidance algorithm was included and adapted to the simulation to recreate and validate aircraft performance in emergency situations where an obstacle is detected along the desired flight trajectory.