Autonomous Control of Helicopters
Under the guidance of Prof. Girard from Aerospace Engineering and with the help of the University of Michigan Duderstadt Center, two students developed novel algorithms to give autonomous motion control to miniature helicopters. Using the Duderstadt Center’s motion capture system they were able to determine the helicopters precise location in 3D space. With this information their algorithm determined proper throttle and heading for the helicopter to reach its goal. One classic example of their work involved two helicopters which were told to “defend” one of the creators (Zahid). Zahid wore a helmet with markers on it so the computer, and helicopters, knew where he was. Then, as he walked around the room the two helicopters followed beside him protecting him from any potential aggressors.