Research Groups

The research group focuses on developing complex algorithms that enable unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) to make autonomous decisions in real-time system environments. Our research work centers on navigation, control, and trajectory planning principles of UAVs for complex real-life applications such as terrain following, obstacle avoidance and target surveillance. We address the control and navigation problems for both fixed-wing aerial vehicles and multirotors. Our team develops advanced control algorithms and frameworks for software-in-the-loop and hardware-in-the-loop simulations. The goal of the research group is to create solutions that allow UAVs to operate safely and accurately even in the most challenging environments.

Main research areas/competencies:

• guidance and control of fixed wing aerial vehicles and multirotors;
• path planning for terrain following/obstacle avoidance/interception cases;
• hardware and Software-in-the-loop testing.

Members of the research group:

Arun Kumar Singh, Amith Manoharan, Edvin Martin Andrejev

The aim of the research group is to investigate dynamic RF sensor arrays based on drone swarms and their realization possibilities. Using a drone swarm-based sensor arrays significantly increases the operational range of radio monitoring and radio transmitters localization compared to ground-based systems. In the military field, it is possible to combine radio frequency (RF) and optical detection, which reduces the necessary flight time for identifying targeted objects.

The research group is investigating possibilities for synchronizing RF signals from drones over the air and formulating directional patterns, taking into account the instability of the drones. To achieve this, methods for maintaining drone swarms and accurately measuring distances between drones are being explored.

• radio monitoring;
• direction finding and triangulation;
• array beam patterns;
• accurate assessment of inter-element distances in drone swarms;
• over the air synchronization;
• assessment of noise generated by drone electrical systems;
• evaluation of the Doppler effect from drone propeller motion on communication and monitoring systems.

Members of the research group:
Toomas Ruuben, Siim Heering, Karl-Eerik Unt, Tanel Tärgla, Crismar Liukonen, Kuldar Saaremäe, Julia Berdnikova  

Additional information:

Toomas Ruuben, PhD, Researcher (Communication and Navigation Systems)
toomas.ruuben@eava.ee, +372 5554 1571

• measurements of propeller efficiency through slipstream monitoring;
• identifying relationships between various aerodynamic parameters and efficiency;
• the impact of aerodynamic modifiers.

• powder generation/conversion/coating;
• mixtures, fuel parameter characterisation;
• emission and engine parameters measurements.
  
  

The research group focuses on reducing the carbon footprint and increasing energy efficiency by implementing innovative solutions in aerodynamic systems. The current work investigates electrohydrodynamic (EHD) effects, which involve the movement of electrically charged fluids and gases under the influence of electric fields. The goal is to modify aerodynamic drag by using systems that control airflow without moving parts, offering fast response times and the ability to miniaturize and install a large number of devices on the surface of objects.

The project results can be applied to reduce aerodynamic losses in air transportation, contributing to increased energy efficiency and the development of sustainable technology.

• the relationships between simulations and real-life experiments;
• analyses of different parameters;
• EHD applications in aerodynamics.