U-SCUAR project update
The U-SCUAR consortium was born with the objective of undertaking advanced research in the field of unmanned systems, in order to comply with the requirements of European regulations on UAS. The project proposes the definition and development of a complete system that can operate in medium-risk SAIL III and IV operational scenarios following the SORA methodology and in effective compliance with the requirements of the European regulations on UAS in order to provide the platform of technologies focused on operations under the highest standards of efficiency and safety.
PildoLabs’ role in the project could be summarized as facilitating the drone operators’ access to U-Space and/or providing the drone operator with an additional layer of services when the drone operates in volumes where complete U-Space services are not available. During year 2023, the system architecture definition has been finalised. The two main subsystems to be developed are a beacon device and a central server.
In the short term, UAS beacon devices emerge as valuable tools for simplifying access to U-space for drones lacking direct interfaces with USSPs. These devices may offer an efficient solution for drone operators owing drones without USSP connectivity, allowing seamless integration into U-space without the complexities of programming such interfaces. Looking ahead to the medium term, it’s probable that drone manufacturers will take on the responsibility of managing the interface between drones and USSPs, eliminating the need for operators to incorporate beacon devices for U-space access. However, UAS beacon devices may still have a role to play if they could support advanced features tailored for certain complex missions. Just as examples to illustrate the functionalities such devices could offer in the future, they might include: a) devices equipped with advanced receivers integrated into the drone’s navigation system, ensuring redundant positioning and even allowing the execution of certain procedures, or b) devices equipped with communication systems (i.e IoT, LTE,..) serving as drone backup communication channels in case of C2 channel loss. During year 2023 the specifications and design of the U-SCUAR beacon have been completed.
The Central Server, in addition to its functionality of integrating and managing information from the beacon device and the Ground Control Station, will offer services to provide the drone with an additional layer of safety for operating in volumes where U-Space services are not available. PildoLabs expects these functionalities would be interesting for operators wishing to perform complex missions. Year 2023 has been key in the development of the functionalities that will be tested during the year 2024.
The U-SCUAR project has been recognized for its strong strategic, technological, and innovative nature, which is why it has become part of the Aeronautical Technology Programme (PTA) of the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation. In turn, this programme is framed within the Strategic Project for Aerospace Economic Recovery and Transformation (PERTE). U-SCUAR stands out for its contribution to unmanned aerial vehicle technologies, meeting the necessary requirements to enter the programme. Project U-SCUAR was subsidized by the CDTI, co-financed with European funds from the Recovery and Resilience Mechanism and supported by the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities.
