WAYPOINT NAVIGATION

With the waypoint navigation guidance our drones can be operated fully autonomous including auto start and auto landing.

To archive a customizable waypoint control we have developed a specialized WNSL (Waypoint Navigation Script Language).
This script language implements also system and payload control.

A WNSL file can be generated online or offline. Our online software is based on Google Earth™.
Once a waypoint file is created it can be transferred to a memory card and plugged into the drone.

A waypoint type can be a "Fly Through Waypoint" (go to the next), or an "Action Waypoint". Every waypoint may have different properties like: Position tolerance, Cruise speed, Yaw angle, Payload options. Action waypoints are able to perform absolute time synchronizations, delays and payload operations.


A typical waypoint sequence expressed in human language would be something like this:

  • Start motors
  • Set actual GPS position as home position
  • Set cruise speed (e.g. 5m/s)
  • Set waypoint position tolerance (e.g.+-3m)
  • Set relative start altitude (e.g. 3m)
  • Perform auto start
  • Fly to absolute position (coordinate [ECEF or LLH])
  • Turn 30 degrees North (or wherever)
  • Set camera tilt angle (e.g. 45 degrees)
  • Trigger camera (to take a photo or start/stop video)
  • Delay (e.g. for 3s)
  • Fly to relative position (x, y, z [m])
  • Perform IO action (e.g. drop a ground marker)
  • Delay (e.g. for 3s)
  • Execute other commands...
  • Return to home position
  • Perform auto landing
  • Turn off motors
Typical waypoint performance with about 2m position tolerance
GPS / INS Implementation
Future Improvements / Extensions
  • Integration of WNSL editor and simulator into our basic software package "mdCockpit".
  • Support of CAN 2.0B protocol, integration of CAN based customized payload control.
  • Support of customized swarm communication.
  • Support of object tracking.
HOME TOP
Special macro functions like "POI" (Point of Interest) provide unique capabilities
If this POI is set then all following waypoints will keep the actual view point (yaw angle and camera tilt).

By setting the POI to the center of a tower you can fly around the tower always looking at the center - automatically!
GPS Position Hold