LIFT OFF: LoRaWAN Installation and Fiducial Tracking Operations for the Flightline of the Future

Abstract

Real-time situational awareness for the location of assets is critical to ensure missions are completed efficiently and requirements are satisfied. In many commercial settings, the application of global positioning system (GPS) sensors is appropriate to achieve timely knowledge of the position of people and equipment. However, GPS sensors are not appropriate for all situations due to flight clearance and operations security concerns. LIFT OFF: LoRaWAN Installation and Fiducial Tracking Operations for the Flightline of the Future proposes a hybrid framework solution to achieve real-time situational awareness for people, support equipment, and aircraft positions regardless of the environment. This framework included a machine-vision component, which involved setting up cameras to detect AprilTag decals that were installed on the sides of aircraft. The framework included a geolocation sensor component, which involved installing GPS sensors on support equipment and helmets. The framework also included creating a long-range wide area network (LoRaWAN) to transfer data and developing a user interface to display the data. The framework was tested at Naval Air Station Oceana Flightline, the United States Naval Test Pilot School, and at Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division Lakehurst. LIFT OFF successfully provided a real-time updating map of all tracked assets using GPS sensors for people and support equipment and with visual fiducials for aircraft. The trajectories of the assets were recorded for logistical analysis and playback. Future follow-on work is anticipated to apply the technology to other environments including carriers and amphibious assault ships in addition to the flightline.