Enhancing Unmanned Traffic Management Through Data Fusion

With the rapid evolution of drone technology, its adoption by businesses of various scales is on the rise. This surge in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) necessitates the implementation of robust safety measures to ensure that national airspaces can effectively manage the increasing volume of air traffic.

The Need for Specialized Regulations

While traditional aviation has a well-defined framework of regulations, the distinct nature of unmanned aircraft requires a tailored approach. It is essential to create new systems capable of monitoring and managing UAVs both within visual range and beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS). This is where Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) systems come into play, utilizing a range of sensors and technologies to maintain safety and efficiency.

Sunhillo’s Role in UTM Progress

Sunhillo has been at the forefront of developing surveillance and data distribution systems for over 30 years, serving clients such as the U.S. Department of Defense and the FAA. For the past eight years, the company has focused on the UAS market, contributing to initiatives like the NASA UTM Task orders in collaboration with the Mid Atlantic Aviation Partnership (MAAP) and Virginia Tech Test Site.

Innovative Solutions: multi-Track Fuser

One of Sunhillo’s standout innovations is the Multi-Track fuser, which enables UTM systems to integrate multiple data streams from various sources, including radar and ADS-B. This technology consolidates information into a single, precise track for each UAV, substantially streamlining the process of acquiring surveillance data and reducing visual clutter from numerous tracks.

the Multi-Track Fuser can connect to as many as 32 sensors concurrently,managing up to 800 tracks per sensor continuously. This capability allows for the output of up to 5,000 fused tracks, making it ideal for handling extensive UAV traffic. The system is versatile, accepting input in various formats such as ASTERIX, CD2, and ASR9, and can output data in formats like SGF and ECGP.

real-Time Surveillance Displays

The newly integrated track data can be directed to surveillance displays, including UTM systems, air traffic control (ATC), or Sunhillo’s own Surveillance Monitoring System. This is crucial for BVLOS operations, as remote pilots need to be aware of both manned and unmanned aircraft in their vicinity during flight operations.

Comprehensive Software Solutions

Multi-Track Fuser is part of Sunhillo’s advanced SureLine software suite, which powers all of the company’s surveillance products. SureLine offers a wide array of features beneficial for both manned and unmanned air traffic control, including radar format conversions, filtering, analysis, and visualization tools. The software suite also includes a user-friendly web-based GUI,facilitating easy integration for UTM providers.

UAS-C: A key Hardware Solution

Sunhillo also provides a specialized hardware solution,the UAS-C,which enhances real-time situational awareness for both UAS operators and air traffic controllers. This device works in tandem with unmanned aircraft ground control stations, converting positional data from the UAV into radar or ADS-B messages that can be transmitted to command centers, ATC, or UTM systems. This capability is vital for tracking UAVs in controlled airspace and is notably useful for supporting BVLOS waiver requests, which require stringent safety protocols to meet regulatory standards.

Linking multiple UAS-C units for a comprehensive surveillance solution

Conclusion: A Unified Approach to UTM

Sunhillo’s integrated hardware and software solutions create a robust surveillance framework that empowers UTM systems to facilitate safe and secure drone operations within national airspace. For further details on Sunhillo’s offerings, please visit their website.