Experimental prototype for visual support in the calibration of the precision indicator lights of approach slope, for a landing track using a drone

Abstract

The use of calibration methods for visual aids systems in airports guarantees aviation safety with new alternatives and precision methods. The article shows the implementation of an experimental prototype for the support of visual aid in the calibration of precision indicator lights by means of a drone to improve the approach slopes of aircraft. In each of the experimental tests the following activities were developed: a) execute the program that contains the code to perform the process of emulation / calibration of the lights, b) connect the model of the lights to the Arduino and be connected to the portable equipment, c) perform the drone calibration process each time a flight plan is made, d) connect the mobile device to the drone’s remote control to integrate them into the wireless network (Wi-Fi), e) on the device mobile the application is executed to configure the flight plan and f) the emulation / calibration is performed with the model of the lights. Obtain the best visibility angles according to the effective percentages of experimentation that indicate the accuracy of the experimental system proposed through a mobile application. In addition, this article proposes a methodology for the calibration of the Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI) lights through wireless devices. The proposed methodology establishes the basic conditions for the development of the process of supervision, monitoring and calibration of the PAPI lighting system of any track in Colombia according to the regulations on luminous visual aids.