Vision Algorithms for UAVs Aerial Refueling Using Probe-Drogue

Abstract

A critical limitation for the current use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) is represented by the lack of aerial refueling capabilities. This paper describes the results of an effort on the modeling of the refueling soft hose realized by FEM techniques and on the algorithms of the docking control. The algorithms of the docking maneuver is based on Machine Vision (MV).The simulation results with a vision technique capable of estimating the drogue position is presented. Simulation results suggest the proposed algorithm performs the same accuracy with extremely fast speed compared with the current employed algorithms.