SBIR-STTR Award

We propose a new Synthetic Vision (SV) system architecture for helicopter brown-out landing use. Instead of authoring 3D terrain and feature datasets outside of the flight system and then uploading the prepared data prior to mission use, the proposed solution self-generates a dynamic 3D terrain model using aircraft passive-sensor camera imagery. The approach eliminates the pre-flight data acquisition, processing and uploading operations. The TerraBlocksT "Clear-to-Land" (CTL) strategy builds on our TerraBlocks SV rendering and display engine using the wavelet-encoded, multiple level-of-detail TerraBlocks 3D terrain data structure and run-time methodology. The CTL system pivots around a dynamic implementation of the TerraBlocks 3D terrain model component. The SV component receives the aircraft INS datastream and generates the out-the-window rendering based on aircraft position and attitude. Flight symbology overlays such as flight data, landing corridor and dangerous obstacle cueing are added. As the 3D terrain model is refined based on sensor data availability and quality, the refined model appears in the rendered display. Ultimately, as the helicopter enters brown-out conditions, the model is frozen, or even rolled back to an earlier "last-good" state and used for the rendering and pilot display of terrain and obstacles throughout the landing maneuver.

Keywords:
Autonomous Landing Systems, Brown-Out Landing, 3d Terrain Modeling, Dynamic 3d Terrain Modeling, Synthetic Vision, Passive Sensors, Rotorcraft Landing

TerraMetrics proposes a Phase II program to continue research and development of the TerraBlocks Clear-to-Land™ (CTL) system for helicopter brown-out landing. Building on the successful Phase I feasibility and performance characterization, and the proof-of-principle demonstration, we propose to refine and complete R&D work, producing a functional brassboard prototype system, culminating in an integrated technology demonstration flight test, while simultaneously setting the stage for Phase III commercial availability through strategic commercial partnerships. The TerraBlocks CTL system utilizes the best attributes of proven, visually rich Enhanced and Synthetic Vision display and rendering technologies while eliminating the need for pre-flight terrain and obstacle data acquisition and preparation tasks, and the potential for missing features in the terrain database. Range data is computed from passive stereo cameras and used to self-generate a converging dynamic TerraBlocks™ 3D terrain model, which can also be used for precision hover and landing applications. Throughout the landing procedure, the SV terrain-rendering component displays the 3D terrain model contents from an egocentric or exocentric viewpoint as required by the helicopter flight display presentation. As the helicopter enters brown-out conditions, the model freezes at a “last-good” state and is used with flight symbology for subsequent display throughout the landing maneuver.

Keywords:
Autonomous Landing Systems, Brown-Out Landing, 3d Terrain Modeling, Dynamic 3d Terrain Modeling, Synthetic Vision, Passive Sensors, Rotorcraft Landing