A locator project for small UAVs is described that emphasizes antenna design. A UAV locator system must include an on-board transmitter with capability for providing a beacon signal in the event of a crash and an operator receiver that is tailored for a transmitter hunt. Hence, antenna topics can be discussed in relation to electronics hardware, electrical power, systems integration, and UAV technology. This specific context for applying antenna theory can highlight the relevance and trade-offs in what are often abstract topics. The design criteria for the transmitting and receiving antennas in a locator system include constraints on size, power, weight, and performance as well as frequency selection based on radio-wave propagation characteristics. This work defines locator design objectives and constraints for small unmanned aircraft/systems (small UAVs or sUAS), i.e. aircraft defined by weights between 55lbs and 0.55 lbs. Possible antenna approaches for the transmitting antenna and the receiving antenna are presented with regard to directionality, frequency, power, range, etc. An example design is presented as a case study for illustrating trade-offs among the design choices. The difficulty and scope for a student project may be varied by the number of unspecified constraints and the required results, e.g. antenna simulations or anechoic-chamber testing. As an educational resource, the material can be used as an assignment for electromagnetics and antenna courses, as a focus project for capstone design teams, and as a UAV-related extra-curricular activity or competition. The paper provides a structure for organizing the material, a case study to illustrate possible choices, and recommendations on educational implementation.
Dr. Steve E. Watkins is Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology, formerly the University of Missouri-Rolla. He is currently a Distinguished Visiting Professor at the USAF Academy. His interests include educational innovation. He is active in IEEE, HKN, SPIE, and ASEE including service as the 2015-17 ASEE Zone III Chair and as an officer in the Electrical and Computer Engineering Division. His Ph.D. is from the University of Texas at Austin (1989).
Dr. Musselman received his B.S. degree from Southern Illinois University and his M.S. and Ph.D. degrees, from the University of Colorado, in Electrical Engineering. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in Colorado. He has achieved the academic rank of Professor at the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) and is the Dir of Curriculum in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (DFEC), where he is in charge of the electromagnetics and communications systems courses and oversees all department curricular matters. In addition, Professor Musselman directs the Microwave Measurements Lab, where he oversees antenna pattern and radar cross-section experiments in a two-million dollar anechoic chamber. Dr. Musselman has published over 70 peer-reviewed journal articles, book chapters, and conference papers, mostly in the fields of electromagnetic propagation effects and antenna design. He has received a U.S. Patent, and currently has another patent pending. He has won several research and teaching awards, including the Seiler Award for Research Excellence, the US Air Force Academy Outstanding Scientist/Engineer, and the BGen Roland E. Thomas Award for Outstanding Contribution to Cadet Education.
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