Infrared-based Precision Landing for an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

Precision landing is a significant challenge for autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) owing to the limitations and inaccuracies of the global positioning system (GPS) in such scenarios. Researchers have often relied on marker detection using electro-optical (EO) cameras for precision landing approaches. However, EO cameras fall short in nocturnal or low-light environments. In this regard, we propose a novel approach that utilizes infrared (IR) technology for precision landing. Essentially, this approach avoids the limitations of using GPS and operates effectively in inadequate lighting conditions. The proposed system utilizes a downward-facing IR-lock sensor mounted on a UAV to detect a specially designed IR marker. The IR marker is composed of three IR beacons in a triangular formation. The UAV then uses a pose estimation algorithm to compute its relative position and orientation to the landing site. Afterwards, a landing algorithm along with the pose estimation results guides the UAV to align minimizing the relative pose. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness and accuracy of this approach, offering a viable solution for precision landing challenges.