#insights

What is GNC? Are you aware of the intricacies of how an autonomous vehicle operates?

Drones and autonomous vehicles are currently at the forefront of technological innovation. These advancements promise to revolutionize our lives, offering enhanced efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and safety. We frequently observe exciting developments in this field, particularly in self-driving cars. However, the application of such technologies extends far beyond these visible examples, with numerous other implementations in development or already operational.

In the contemporary landscape, the majority of unmanned vehicles are managed by teleoperators. Yet, a select few have achieved true autonomy, operating independently of any human intervention. This category of fully autonomous vehicles has been a staple in the military and space sectors for years, particularly where direct communication links are unfeasible (e.g., missiles, rockets, satellites, submarines). With the ongoing evolution of technology, this autonomous capability is progressively being incorporated into terrestrial transport modes such as buses, cars, and even commercial aircraft.

The pivotal GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) systems are the technological cornerstones enabling the functionality of both unmanned and fully autonomous vehicles. These systems encompass three crucial functions: “locating the vehicle’s current position” (Navigation), “strategizing the optimal route to the intended destination” (Guidance), and “managing the vehicle’s operations to successfully reach that destination” (Control).

GNC systems are integral to a multitude of vehicles across various sectors. In the context of aerospace and defence, some of the applications are particularly critical: Autonomous Navigation, Attitude Orbit Control System (AOCS), Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T), Swarming/Formation Flying and Rendezvous & Docking:

• Autonomous Navigation – This indispensable system empowers land-based vehicles (e.g., buses, trains, cars) to operate autonomously, without a driver.
  • Attitude Orbit Control System (AOCS) – A sophisticated system responsible for maintaining satellites in their designated orbits, ensuring accurate orientation.
  • Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) – This concept involves a cooperative operation of manned and unmanned assets, collaboratively striving towards a unified mission objective.
  • Swarming/Formation Flying – A formation of autonomous vehicles that maneuver in harmony, like a flock of birds or a constellation of fireflies, maintaining spatial awareness to avoid collisions.
  • Launch & Recovery System – This system, employed in missiles, rockets, or aerial vehicles, facilitates the initiation and retrieval of these entities, exemplified by SpaceX’s booster recovery operations.

GNC systems are essential in pushing the boundaries of technological innovation in autonomous and unmanned vehicles. From enhancing safety and efficiency in ground transportation to enabling unprecedented complex space missions, GNC technology lies at the heart of the transformation towards advanced autonomy.

As we explore the vast possibilities these systems offer, Sener positions itself at the forefront in Aerospace and Defence, exploring and developing solutions that not only challenge the limits of current technology but also pave the way for the future of exploration, defence, and everyday life, even reaching beyond our planet.

Cover image generated by AI