SHADOW
SHADOW has been meticulously engineered with a strong emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and a high degree of autonomy. The system combines state-of-the-art flight control algorithms, robust computer vision capabilities, and intelligent mission planning frameworks to ensure seamless and adaptive performance across a range of operational scenarios.
The platform supports fully autonomous flight operations, seamlessly integrating precision takeoff and landing routines, waypoint-based navigation with real-time course correction, and onboard object detection and classification through advanced visual processing. Additionally, it features autonomous obstacle avoidance capabilities, ensuring mission continuity even in dynamic and uncertain environments.
Through tight integration of sensing, control, and perception modules, SHADOW achieves a mission-ready balance between autonomy and robustness, making it a reliable choice for complex aerial tasks in the SUAS 2025 challenge.
- Endurance: 35+ minutes flight time
- Range: 15+ km communication range
- Payload capacity: 5 kg
- Max speed: 65 km/h
- Obstacle Avoidance range: 50 m
- Autonomy: Human in the loop
Key Components
Airframe
SHADOW features a compact and robust quadcopter airframe designed for stability, modular integration, and efficient payload handling. The symmetrical frame layout supports precise control during autonomous missions, including low-altitude maneuvers and hover-intensive tasks. Its lightweight structure enables extended flight time, while the open layout facilitates quick access to avionics and sensors, simplifying both integration and maintenance.
Propulsion System
The propulsion system is powered by a Hobbywing X-Series motor and ESC setup, known for its high efficiency, reliability, and smooth throttle response. This system delivers the thrust required for vertical takeoff, stable hover, and dynamic waypoint navigation. The all-electric configuration ensures low noise, minimal vibration, and reduced maintenance overhead, making it well-suited for both indoor testing and outdoor mission scenario
Communication Systems
SHADOW utilizes a robust triple-link communication architecture to ensure reliable and mission-resilient connectivity. The primary link is a bidirectional MAVLink telemetry channel, which handles real-time command, control, and system diagnostics between the UAV and the Ground Control Station (GCS). A secondary video/payload data link enables live transmission of imagery or sensor outputs, supporting mid-mission analysis. A third Wi-Fi or short-range diagnostic link is used for pre-flight configuration, testing, and debugging. Together, these links provide layered communication redundancy and ensure continuous situational awareness throughout the mission.
Technical Specifications
Physical
- Weight: 17.5 kg
- Configuration: Quadrotor
- Material: Carbon fiber composite
Performance
- Max Speed: 65 km/h
- Cruise Speed: 36-54 km/h
- Endurance: 35+ minutes
- Range: 15+ km
- Ceiling: 400 ft AGL
Payload
- Capacity: 5 kg maximum
- Camera: 12.3 MP 4K Camera
- Sensors: 2D LiDAR
- Payload system: Winch mechanism