As unmanned aerial systems are becoming more and more commonplace in the public eye, how can they be used not only for novelty - but for good? In setting out to answer this question, we found that not only do they have the ability to affect positive change, they also have the chance to save innocent lives.
This session will outline our development and eventual prototype testing of an unmanned aerial system (or drone) that uses multiple sensors on board to survey areas for eventual UXO clearance in war-torn areas. From 1964 to 1973, the United States dropped nearly 2 million tons of explosives on Laos to stop the movement of North Vietnamese troops and munitions. These munitions still affect daily life in the region and hamper economic growth. Using UAS to map potentially dangerous areas, personnel can survey the topography without endangering themselves or the local population.