Non-Parametric, Closed-Loop Testing of Autonomy in Unmanned Aircraft Systems

The proposed Phase I program aims to develop new methods to support safety testing for integration of Unmanned Aircraft Systems into the National Airspace (NAS) with a particular focus on testing the collision avoidance (CA) algorithms of a UAS Sense-and-Avoid (SAA) system. The two primary issues addressed by this research are: (i) the risk that incorrect/mismatched modeling assumptions will skew simulation analyses and (ii) the fundamental difficulty of verifying the performance of autonomous systems that dynamically react to the environment. In particular, this research program would develop novel methods for conducting non-parametric, closed-loop simulation testing of collision avoidance algorithms. The technology generates a campaign of simulation experiments that automatically adapt to the algorithms in question. The purpose of this innovation is to expose potential vulnerabilities in UAS autonomy that are generated through the interaction of autonomous UAS algorithms with other agents such as an intruding aircraft operating under ``right of way rules". This work augments both the probabilistic open-loop testing methods, where agents do not react, and closed-loop testing where agent behavior is fixed a priori.

The immediate NASA application is safety analysis for the UAS Integration in the NAS program. In particular, this work would support the Separation Assurance/Sense and Avoid Interoperability (SSI) and Integrated Test and Evaluation (IT&E) subprograms within this effort through tools to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of fast-time and HITL simulation testing.

Non-NASA applications would include those for programs of interest within the DoD. Program offices with potential application for the technology developed include the Army DTC and OTC, AFOTEC, and N-UCAS. We have also identified the JUAS-ME initiative as one specific transition application. The technology could also potentially be applied to a much broader autonomous robotics market.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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