Optimal Path Planning of UAVs Using Direct Collocation with Nonlinear Programming

A trajectory generation algorithm using direct collocation with nonlinear programming is successfully demonstrated in simulation. Direct collocation, which approximates the states and controls with piecewise polynomials, has been widely used in space and manned aircraft applications, but has only seen limited use in UAV applications. The algorithm is successfully applied to the generation of a UAV trajectory that provides maximum viewing time for a camera mounted on the UAV. The target can be stationary or moving. Multiple UAVs are considered. In this case, the objective is to provide maximum sensor coverage time using a combination of the UAVs. No specific initial guesses are required to ensure the algorithm is successful.