Autonomous Landing and Recharging of Indoor UAVs

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are expected to carry out tasks of increased complexity, expanding in indoor environments such as warehouses and healthcare settings. However, indoor environments impose unique challenges to UAVs as the enclosed space is relatively small and safety is crucial for people working in the same space. Furthermore, the unavailability of GPS leads to the reliance of onboard sensors, and the performance is influenced by environmental factors such as lighting. The development of an autonomous landing system for indoor UAVs with required safety and efficiency is a high priority research topic. The primary objective of the proposed research project is to develop a comprehensive landing and recharging station for indoor UAVs. The system will enhance UAV endurance and usability for various indoor applications, facilitating continuous UAV operations without human interventions. A battery recharge and monitoring system will also be developed, including a docking method to align the UAV for contact-based recharging and to ensure efficient, fast and safe recharge of UAV batteries. Two interns are planned for the proposed project: one focuses on the investigation and development of autonomous landing control and the other on development of a recharging station for indoor UAVs.

Faculty Supervisor:

Guangjun Liu

Student:

Partner:

SOTI Inc

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Information and cultural industries; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

Toronto Metropolitan University

Program: