System and method for optimizing mission fulfillment by unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) via dynamic atmospheric modeling

• Main Authors: Wolford, Brian R, Liberko, Nicholas, McElroy, Kevin, Svatek, Boe A, Kronfeld, Kevin M
• Format: Patent
• Language: English
• Published: 18.07.2023
• Subjects: PHYSICS; SIGNALLING; TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEMS

A system and method for optimizing mission fulfillment via unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) within a mission space generates or receives atmospheric models forecasting weather and wind through the mission space, the atmospheric models having an uncertainty factor. Until the projected flight time, the controller may iterate through one or more simulations of a projected flight plan through the mission space, determining the probability of successful fulfillment of mission objectives based on the most current atmospheric models (including the ability of the UAS to navigate the flight plan within authorized airspace constraints). Based on conditions and behaviors observed during a simulated flight plan, the controller may revise flight plans, flight times, or atmospheric models for subsequent simulations. Based on multiple probabilities of fulfillment across multiple simulations, the controller selects an optimal flight plan and/or flight time for fulfillment of the assigned set of mission objectives.