Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) Technology for Unmanned Systems

BVLOS refers to the operation of unmanned systems beyond the direct visual range of the operator. This contrasts with visual line of sight (VLOS) operations, where the operator maintains direct visual contact with the unmanned vehicle. BVLOS operations enable tasks over greater distances and in environments where direct observation is impractical.

Transitioning to BVLOS operations necessitates advanced technologies to maintain situational awareness, ensure navigation accuracy, and facilitate communication between the unmanned system and control stations.

Key Technologies & Components Enabling BVLOS

Module and antenna kit for BVLOS inspection and surveillance applications by Gotonomi.

Several technologies are integral to the safe and efficient operation of unmanned systems in BVLOS scenarios:

Detect and Avoid (DAA) Systems: These systems enable unmanned vehicles to autonomously detect and avoid obstacles and other airspace users. DAA technologies may include radar, LiDAR, acoustic sensors, and computer vision algorithms. They are crucial for preventing collisions and ensuring compliance with airspace regulations.

Inertial Navigation Systems (INS): INS provides navigation data by measuring the vehicle’s acceleration and rotation rates. When integrated with GNSS/GPS, they offer robust positioning information, essential for maintaining course during GPS outages or in environments with limited satellite visibility.

Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B): ADS-B systems broadcast the position and velocity of the unmanned vehicle to other airspace users and air traffic control, enhancing situational awareness and traffic deconfliction.

Autopilot Systems: Advanced autopilot systems manage the flight path and stability of unmanned vehicles, allowing for precise control during complex BVLOS missions. These systems are often integrated with mission planning software and can adapt to dynamic environmental conditions.

Communication Links: Reliable communication is vital for BVLOS operations. Technologies such as satellite communications (Satcom), 5G connectivity, and LTE networks provide the necessary bandwidth and latency characteristics for real-time control and data transmission.

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS): GNSS, including GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou, offer precise positioning data. When combined with Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) corrections, GNSS enables centimeter-level accuracy, critical for applications like precision agriculture and infrastructure inspection.

Redundancy and System Health Monitoring: Implementing redundant systems and continuous health monitoring ensures that unmanned vehicles can handle component failures gracefully, maintaining safety during BVLOS operations.

Applications of BVLOS Technology

The capability to operate beyond visual line of sight expands the potential applications of unmanned systems across various sectors:

Agriculture: BVLOS drones can monitor large agricultural fields, assess crop health, and manage resources efficiently. Applications include crop monitoring, precision agriculture, and livestock management.

Infrastructure Inspection: Unmanned systems can inspect pipelines, power lines, wind turbines, and other critical infrastructure over extended distances, reducing the need for manual inspections and enhancing safety.

Emergency Response: In disaster scenarios, BVLOS drones provide rapid situational awareness, assist in search and rescue operations, and deliver essential supplies to inaccessible areas.

Environmental Monitoring: Long-range unmanned systems can monitor wildlife, track environmental changes, and collect data for atmospheric research and forest fire detection.

Security and Surveillance: BVLOS operations enable persistent surveillance for border patrol, law enforcement, and military reconnaissance, covering vast areas without needing manned patrols.

Logistics and Delivery: BVLOS drones facilitate the delivery of medical supplies, humanitarian aid, and commercial goods to remote or hard-to-reach locations, improving logistics efficiency.

Regulatory Considerations

Operating unmanned systems BVLOS requires adherence to regulatory frameworks established by aviation authorities. Operators must demonstrate the safety and reliability of their systems, often necessitating waivers or certifications. Compliance involves proving the effectiveness of DAA systems, communication reliability, and overall operational safety.

Advancements & Future Outlook

The integration of emerging technologies continues to enhance BVLOS capabilities:

Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI algorithms improve obstacle detection, flight path optimization, and decision-making processes, enabling more autonomous BVLOS operations.

Embedded Computing: Processing data onboard the unmanned vehicle reduces latency and reliance on communication links, allowing for faster response times and increased autonomy.

Enhanced Connectivity: The deployment of 5G networks and advancements in Satcom technologies provide more reliable and higher bandwidth communication channels, essential for real-time data transmission and control.

Beyond BVLOS

BVLOS technology significantly extends the operational capabilities of unmanned systems, enabling a wide range of applications across various industries. The successful implementation of BVLOS operations hinges on integrating advanced navigation, communication, and safety systems, along with adherence to regulatory standards. As technology evolves, BVLOS operations are poised to become increasingly prevalent, offering enhanced efficiency, safety, and reach for unmanned missions.