This paper presents a novel onboard system called In-Flight Awareness Augmentation System (IFA 2 S) to improve flight safety. IFA 2 S is designed to semi-automatically (with human supervision) avoid hazards and accidents due to either internal or external causal factors. The requirements were defined in an innovative way using Systems-Theoretic Process Analysis (STPA) method and applied next to model the system. IFA 2 S increases aircraft awareness regarding both itself and its environment and, at the same time, recognizes platform and operational constraints to act in accordance to predefined decision algorithms. Results are presented through simulations and flight tests using state machines designed to allow the adoption of appropriate actions for the identified hazards. The different decision algorithms are evaluated over as many as possible hazard situations by simulations conducted with software Labview and XPlane flight simulator. Flight tests are performed in a small fixed wing aircraft and make use of a limited version IFA 2 S, partially attending identified requirements. Results support the conclusion that IFA 2 S is capable of improving flight safety.
KeywordsUnmanned Aerial VehiclesAir SafetySystems-Theoretic Process AnalysisIn-Flight Awareness
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