| This thesis details development of a software package which provides a unique service to unmanned aerial vehicle operators. The software has two modes of operation, Planning Mode and Execution Mode. In planning mode the operator can easily simulate a desired flight course to determine mission feasibility. A key feature of this mode is the optional integration of forecast numerical weather data, weather charts, and interactive trajectory planning. In Execution mode the operator can deploy a flight, change the route "on the fly", hold the aircraft over a point of interest, and return the aircraft to home base.;Any data required for these functions is automatically acquired from appropriate sources (NAV Canada, Environment Canada) via the internet. Operation of the software, including interactive trajectory planning, weather observing, and mission progress, is achieved through a user-friendly graphical user interface. Simulation results, flight trajectories, and weather data can be saved for further analysis. By comparing missions both with and without weather information, it was determined that meteorological information can have a very significant impact on the mission planning duration and fuel consumption. In an example mission, including numerical weather model data increased the UAV's fuel consumption by 18% and mission time by 25%. Finally, basic software documentation is provided as an appendix. |
