UAVOS Inc. has developed an unmanned aerial complex based on Pipistrel’s Sinus light aircraft.

UAVOS converted three Pipistrel Sinus aircraft into UAVs, and modified the wings of the original aircraft for the installation of hangers for payload. In addition to that, the wiring was changed, and the company integrated its UAVOS automatic control system into the aircraft.

Vadim Tarasov, UAVOS investor and Board member, says that converting manned aircraft into UAVs is a much simpler process than building a heavy UAV from scratch.

“Why did we decide to utilize serially produced manned aircrafts? Because conversion of a manned aircraft into a UAV is the simplest, fastest, most efficient and cost effective method at the initial stage of the creation of specialized heavy UAVs,” Tarasov explains.

“The development and production of a heavy UAV from scratch, including a prototype, testing without a pilot, the preparation of all operating documents, and training of technical personnel requires a huge amount of time and resources. Additionally, there is a major risk to lose a prototype during the tests.”

Tarasov adds that UAVOS had “an invaluable opportunity” to test the operation of all the units and equipment of the automatic control system, and “make the ACS settings on board together with the test pilot, especially during automatic take-off and landing.”   

This project is a part of the overall plan to create a “multifunctional aerial robotic complex” that can perform group missions with an integrated special payload.

Test flights showcased excellent synchronization of the on-board control system with payload during simultaneous flight of three UAVs.

“Due to the nature of the project, the mission requires a well-coordinated work of the payloads of the aerial robotic complex consisting of 3 UAVs,” Tarasov says.

“The customer has opted for an unmanned complex, since installation of such payloads on manned vehicles is dangerous due to the high level of electromagnetic interference that affects the operation of the regular radio navigation equipment.”

The aerial complex includes a UAV and a ground control station. It has a payload weight of 441 pounds, and it can fly for five hours.

The aircraft’s maximum take-off weight is 1410 pounds, and its maximum cruising speed is 75 miles per hour. With a payload weight of 88 pounds, the aircraft has a flight time of 20 hours.

The UAV’s take-off, en-route flight and landing are all carried out in fully automatic mode.

The heavyweight UAVs are designed for long flight in conditions of high turbulence and overloads. They can also handle a harsh landing, thanks to reinforced fuselage and landing gear.

Also, the onboard control system is adjustable to almost any payload, and provides remote diagnostics, along with remote control through wireless internet.