Simulation and flight test capability for testing prototype sense and avoid system elements

NASA-Langley Research Center (NASA-LaRC) and MITRE have developed and successfully demonstrated an integrated simulation-to-flight capability for evaluating sense-and-avoid (SAA).The NASA-MITRE team has developed an integrated simulation and flight test capability for testing prototype sense-and-avoid system elements with an initial emphasis on ADS-B based algorithmic alternatives for self separation. This integrated system includes the capability to develop algorithms, perform fast-time simulation testing, generate fitness reports, integrate into the flight software framework, and execute flight tests in real-world conditions. The value of this integrated process was fully demonstrated and will be expanded to accommodate the flight evaluations scheduled for mid-2013 in eastern North Dakota. This process can serve as a model for the development of systems and algorithms needed to enable the safe integration of UAS in the NAS.