USE Network launch I UAV Works VALAQ l Cable harnesses l USVs insight l Xponential 2020 update l MARIN AUV l Suter Industries TOA 288 l Vitirover l AI systems l Vtrus ABI

The makers of the Pixhawk autopilot have developed a system that combines a flight controller, mission computer and wireless connectivity (writes Nick Flaherty). Open source software developer Auterion has launched the reference design of this fully integrated and connected family of UAV avionics modules that it says is the first of its kind. The Skynode reference design streamlines the process of developing UAVs used in enterprise systems or retrofitting existing products. It combines the latest Pixhawk FMUv5x flight controller, mission computer, and wireless networking with 4G LTE or wi- fi. It also comes pre-installed with the Auterion Enterprise PX4 operating system, providing a software development kit for the payload, communication interface for remote operations, and real-time video over LTE. The Skynode software also enables obstacle detection and avoidance, visual inertial odometry positioning, remote ID and unmanned traffic management. Skynode is directly integrated with Auterion’s cloud-based software, which enables predictive maintenance, aircraft and pilot management, compliance reports and integration into existing business workflows. Using the FMUv5x, PX4, and MAVLink open software makes UAV designs compatible with an ecosystem of payloads via a Private Peripheral Bus interface, components, services and enterprise workflows. Skynode will be launched in the near future with four configurations – an enterprise module, a module certified for US government users, the core board for tighter airframe integration, and a version built by launch partner GE Aviation with Run-time Assurance (RTA) for high-reliability UAV designs that need to operate beyond visual line of sight. The RTA version is intended for systems developed by logistics companies using large UAVs, and healthcare providers shipping critical drugs within urban areas. The design can also be licensed to Auterion customers so that they can build their own implementations with more integration. Integrated avionics module ‘is a first’ Airborne vehicles The all-in-one flight controller, mission computer and wireless system is available in variants including one for UAV BVLOS missions