5.1.3    System topology with cellular connectivity using Andruav

 

This system topology has an onboard smartphone, that connects with the Cockpit-app via cellular networks using the 3rd party software solution Andruav.

Andruav is an Android based software, which can run as 3G endpoint on a smartphone. The smartphone is attached to the aircraft and provides a telemetry link via 3G and the internet.

 

System topology using Andruav:

What is needed?

Specifications

Restriction

Optional

Airborne Vehicle with ArduPilot flight controller + RC system

For multicopter: Configured and (auto‑) tuned vehicle, capable to properly fly in Loiter mode

ArduCopter 3.3 or higher

Mandatory

For planes: Configured and (auto‑) tuned vehicle, capable to properly fly in Cruise mode. Altitudes should stay within +/- 3…5m

Arduplane 3.7 or higher

Mandatory

Bluetooth transceiver

Bluetooth to serial transceiver,
e.g. HC-06

-

Mandatory

Device to run
the Andruav-app

Android handset to run the Andruav Drone-app

 

Mandatory

Tethering hotspot

Any mobile handset, that can provide internet access via a WiFi hotspot.

-

Mandatory

Computer to run
the Cockpit-app

The Cockpit-app is a Windows Store app, that runs on any Windows 10 Tablet, Notebook or Desktop computer. Mid- to upper-class performance is preferred.

Windows 10 Mobile is not supported (as the screen would
be too small)

Mandatory

FPV camera + receiver + UVC video capture

Any FPV camera and FPV radio transmission product, that can feed its output via a Video-S-to-UVC capture device into the cockpit device.

Alternatively, an RTSP source can be configured.

-

Optional

Microsoft Surface Dial

The FlightZoomer autopilot optionally can be controlled with the Microsoft Surface radial controller

-

Optional

 

Using Direct Link offers the following advantages:

✔     Unlimited range due to cellular network connectivity.

✔     Slightly lower latency of the communication bus.

 

The following restrictions apply:

    Cellular network coverage is needed at the location where the aircraft is flying, and an internet connection is needed where the Cockpit-app runs (which in a typical setup on the field requires a tethering hotspot which in turn means that cellular coverage is required also at the location of the groundstation).

    The cellular endpoints need mobile phone contracts (typically 2 are required).

    The nature of cellular networks means, that short time communication disruptions can happen at any time and that fail-safe considerations are crucial.