Events Calendar

The Anatomy of Autonomy: An Aeronautical Systems Perspective

Speaker: Michael S. Francis, Chief Advanced Programs & Senior Fellow of United Technologies Research Center; Program Lead, Autonomous & Intelligent Systems of Sikorsky Aircraft Company

Talk Title: The Anatomy of Autonomy: An Aeronautical Systems Perspective

Abstract: The Anatomy of Autonomy: An Aeronautical Systems Perspective

Michael S. Francis
Chief Advanced Programs & Senior Fellow
United Technologies Research Center
East Hartford, CT
and
Program Lead, Autonomous & Intelligent Systems
Sikorsky Aircraft Company
Stratford, CT

Enabled by the many byproducts of the information revolution, autonomous capabilities are rapidly redefining many of the industrial age platforms and processes created over the last century, while concomitantly enabling a host of new ones. This presentation examines the subject of autonomy and its role in shaping contemporary aeronautical systems, encompassing its genesis, implementation and evolution, as well as its potential in shaping the future. Key capabilities such as low altitude flight, collision avoidance, contingency management and multi-vehicle collaborative operations are featured to illustrate some of the discriminating elements enabled by autonomous functionality. Related topics such as the many 'dimensions' of autonomy, along with its conceptual underpinning; the importance of autonomous functionality in contemporary systems integration; and the nature and importance of the human-system interaction are also addressed. Examples involving advanced unmanned systems, including the Unmanned Combat Air System (UCAS) and the micro air vehicle are employed to further illustrate concepts and provide useful insights into the promise and limitations that frame today's system designs. Key technical, institutional and cultural issues currently limiting realization of the potential of these systems are also discussed, as are some suggested ideas for their resolution.
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Refreshments will be served at 3:15 pm.


Host: Professor Blackwelder

More Info: http://ae-www.usc.edu/seminars/4-4-12-francis.shtml

Location: Seaver Science Library (SSL) - 150

Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

Contact: April Mundy

Event Link: http://ae-www.usc.edu/seminars/4-4-12-francis.shtml