Automated Flight Management System Flashcards
(58 cards)
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Which benefit of RPAS automation enables missions to be flown exactly the same way each time, reducing human error?
Automation of repetitive tasks allows consistent, repeatable missions and uniform data collection.
How does RPAS automation improve the execution of tasks too difficult for manual flight, like bridge inspections?
Automation handles complex tasks with precise navigation and sensor use, increasing safety and accuracy.
In what way does automation make RPAS operations more cost‑effective?
By reducing manual labour and optimising resource use—e.g., automated crop spraying lowers labour costs.
Why is automated data collection generally more reliable than manual methods?
Automation gathers data in a uniform, repeatable manner, improving accuracy and consistency.
How does RPAS automation improve safety for personnel in hazardous environments?
Automation keeps humans out of dangerous areas (e.g., disaster zones), reducing exposure to risk.
What scalability advantage does RPAS automation offer utilities that inspect vast power‑line networks?
Fleets of automated RPAS can easily scale to cover large or multiple sites simultaneously.
Which pro of RPAS automation ensures survey patterns are flown precisely every time?
Improved flight‑path control through pre‑programmed, repeatable routes.
What safety feature uses virtual boundaries to keep an RPAS out of restricted areas?
Geofencing built into automated flight software.
How does enhanced system monitoring in automation boost reliability?
It continuously checks telemetry (battery, signal, component status) and warns pilots of anomalies in real time.
Which advantage of automation lessens the pilot’s cognitive load during flight?
Reduced workload, freeing the pilot to focus on high‑level decision‑making.
Why is switching from automated to manual control considered a downside of RPAS automation?
In emergencies the pilot must rapidly assume control, which can be challenging if situational awareness is low.
What human‑factors limitation can cause delayed reactions when supervising long automated flights?
Decreased vigilance—people are poor at passive monitoring for extended periods.
How can software bugs lead to unexpected automation behaviour in RPAS?
Bugs or misconfigurations may cause the aircraft to deviate from its plan, requiring immediate pilot intervention.
What skill‑related risk arises from over‑reliance on RPAS automation?
Manual piloting skills can atrophy, reducing the pilot’s ability to manage emergencies.
How can frequent software or firmware updates become a limitation for RPAS automation?
Updates may introduce compatibility issues or new bugs, disrupting mission software or sensor functions.
Why must tablets and controllers be included in pre‑flight battery checks?
Automation relies on all devices; if a control tablet dies, the mission can be interrupted.
What can happen if incorrect coordinates are entered into an automated flight plan?
Data inaccuracy can lead to missed targets or collision risks due to erroneous flight paths.
Why is it risky when third‑party apps disable obstacle‑avoidance sensors?
Without active sensors the RPAS is more likely to collide with objects in complex environments.
Which limitation involves wildlife interactions with RPAS?
Vulnerability to wild‑animal attacks, e.g., birds of prey damaging the aircraft.
Why is sole reliance on video feeds during BVLOS flight discouraged?
CASA requires full situational awareness and approvals—screen‑only monitoring can miss external hazards.
Why must all RPAS operations strictly follow the User Guide, Flight Manual and company OPS manual?
Compliance ensures the aircraft is used within certified limits and according to legal and safety requirements.
What is the purpose of using a systematic scan of telemetry during flight?
To detect threats or errors early, allowing prompt corrective action.
Name the three phases covered by RPAS checklists that reduce human error.
Pre‑flight, in‑flight, and post‑flight checklist procedures.
