Researchers at the University of Missouri are developing algorithms for autonomous visual navigation, writes Nick Flaherty. The two-year project received a $3.3m grant from the US Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC). “Most UAVs operating today require GPS navigation to fly, so when they lose that signal they are not able to find their way around and will typically just land wherever they are,” said Prof Kannappan Palaniappan, principal investigator on the project. “Unlike ground-based GPS navigation apps, which can reroute you if you miss a turn, there is currently no option for airborne drones to reroute in these situations.” Palaniappan and his team are developing software that will use image sensors and machine learning algorithms to allow UAVs to independently perceive and interact with their environment. “We want to take the range of skills, attributes, contextual scene knowledge, mission planning and other capacities that UAV operators possess and incorporate them – along with weather conditions – into the UAV’s autopilot, so it can make all of those decisions independently,” said Palaniappan. The team is using Lidar and thermal imaging for object detection and visual recognition. The data from these sensors is sent back to the cloud and is used to build 3D and 4D advanced imagery for mapping and monitoring applications. “After a severe storm or a natural disaster, there will be damage to buildings, waterways and other forms of infrastructure,” said Palaniappan. “A 3D reconstruction of the area could help first-responders to government officials understand how much damage has taken place. “By allowing the UAV to collect the raw data and transmit that information to the cloud, the cloud supporting highperformance computing software can complete the analysis and develop the 3D digital-twin model, without the need for additional software to be physically installed and accessible on the UAV.” Visual navigation Navigating with image sensors and machine learning algos AI for UAV navigation (Image courtesy of University of Missouri) Harwin’s connector products are proven to perform in extreme conditions, with shock, vibration and temperature range rigorously tested. WITH OUR QUALITY, SERVICE, SUPPORT, AND HIGHLY RELIABLE PRODUCTS, YOU CAN DEPEND ON HARWIN. CONNECT TECHNOLOGY WITH CONFIDENCE // WWW.HARWIN.COM Harwin UAV Uncrewed Systems March 24.indd 1 11/03/2024 16:40
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