IAI is fielding the 5th generation of its UAS control station. The iUCS is a game-changing new 4D Innovative Unified Control System (iUCS) is the latest in UAS control, build-to-meet the multi-sensor, high-definition, multi-layered complex missions challenge designed to fly the Heron family. It brings refreshing and patent protected automation, planning, control, simulation, ergonomic and modular design to support multi-tasking easily performed mission by a single operator.
The challenges in 2020s missions have extremely increased with the development of new technologies (High-definition EO/IR/ LD, SAR, MPR, GMTI, ESM, COMMINT, ELINT, etc), bringing new demands to link to external C² and C⁴networking while using more and more unmanned solutions.
The iUCS is part of a solution that offers a powerful machine with maximum automation, advanced tools for mission editing and planning, automated flight, remote automated taxi, take-off and landing and latest mission operational tools. It provides synergy for the information gathered from all sources combined for better battlefield situational picture and decision making.
The iUCS and Heron family provides a whole new level of complex mission handling such as: ISTAR, maritime patrol, aerial persistence, border patrol, HLS, disaster relief, time critical situations and many more.
iUCS reflects extensive investment in ergonomics and man-machine engineering, based on the extensive experience gained through over 40 years of UAS operations in more than 50 world-wide customers and over1.7M flight hours, continuous evolution addressing user requirements and operational experience. Utilising a compact, modular design iUCS is operable as a stand-alone unit in a vehicle, or with multiple consoles grouped in a mobile (land or sea) shelter or fixed location.
iUCS can also operate in large groups, supporting multi-UAS operations centers (MOIC - Mission Operation and Intelligence Centre).
iUCS panoramic multi-screen view comprises two 32”/24” (space depended)high-resolution display screens locating the operator in the centre, providing ample viewing area for simultaneous mission planning and control, with simultaneous live sensor feeds and access to local or remote information sources accessed online.
The iUCS operation implements a fighter pilot ‘Hands-on Stick and Throttle’ concept, patent protected, for a user centric operation, using the joystick and the touch screen to maintain directional control of the payload. An ergonomic ‘throttle’ type multiple controls module is operated by the onehand, controlling various aircraft systems and payload functionality. A retractable tablet-shaped touch-sensitive display provides the main interface for mission planning and control, location pointing and system interface, enabling the controller to input changes in the flight plan, employ procedures, route management, altitude changes, communications control, etc.
Special attention was given to reducing operator workload under routine operation and in emergency. Voice commands are part of the user-machine interface, as the system understands spoken instructions, repeating the command and requests user approval before carrying out the command. Handling alerts is another way for the system reducing workload. Audio warningare triggered in addition to visual alerts when required. The weather warning, limitations crossing or when approaching restricted areas, are indicated visually and verbally, drawing the operator attention to the problem by double checking appropriate action.
The entire system uses Commercial off the Shelf (COTS) hardware, and implements an open and modular architecture that allows both hardware and software to be portable, scalable, and upgradeable. Supporting international standard including all relevant NATO standards including STANAG 4545, 4586, 4607, 4609, 4668, 4669, 4671 and 7023. The system operates with multiple servers, dual redundant database and RAID storage for redundancy.