Extensions of the open-source framework Aerostack 3.0 for the development of more interactive flights between UAVs

Abstract

The basis for properly verified R&D works is to provide reliable prototyping tools at three most important stages: computer simulation, laboratory tests and real-world experiments. In the laboratory-limited conditions, particular importance is attributed to the first two stages, especially in the context of the safety development of autonomous flights of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) groups in various missions. The open-source framework Aerostack support those needs and its effectiveness has been proven in the International Micro Air Vehicle Indoor Competitions (IMAV 2013, 2016, 2017) and Mohammed Bin Zayed International Robotics Challenge (MBZIRC 2020). In the paper, the exemplary functionalities for the new version of Aerostack Version 3.0 Distribution Sirocco (Aerial robotics framework for the industry), extended additionally with a library of new behaviors, are presented. The mission of UAVs can be developed fast and effectively in order to conduct test flights with real drones in lab, before one will decide to fly autonomously outdoor. The representative results obtained for low-cost AR.Drone 2.0 UAV models in two missions, are presented. The first mission is autonomous patrolling the area by a pair of UAVs, the second – intercepting the intruder in guarded area by the guard UAV.