A Simulator for Exploring Autonomous Control of Multiple UAVs at Non-Radar Controlled Airstrips

The paper discusses the use of modeling and simulation to explore concepts of autonomous control for UAVs operating in the vicinity of an airstrip. A state-based algorithm is developed for autonomous collision detection and avoidance, and for developing flight plans that respect the NASA SATS (Small Aircraft Transportation System) concept. The resulting model takes as inputs an initial configuration of UAVs waiting to land at an airport and departing UAVs waiting to take off, as well as the performance characteristics of the UAVs involved. The simulator enables us to explore how well safe separation standards are maintained under different values of SATS parameters. This in turn gives a method for calibrating SATS for particular airstrips and UAV types.