The Role of Simulation in Developing Safe Autonomous Flight

At Wisk, simulation plays a critical role in the development of safe, secure, and dependable autonomous flight. It is a crucial step in facilitating the extensive testing necessary for our autonomous systems to function safely in a dynamic and intricate environment. Our comprehensive testing and validation process is key to enhancing autonomous features before advancing to real-world trials.

Refining Autonomous Flight Through Simulation

Simulations provide us with a controlled environment to evaluate and fine-tune essential systems under various scenarios. By leveraging both real-time and non-real-time simulation environments, we test critical components such as flight path management, conflict detection and resolution (CDR), Airborne Collision Avoidance systems (ACAS-XR), radar, and Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B). Each system must work in harmony to maintain aircraft safety, especially with no traditional pilot on board. These simulations allow us to optimize system interactions and validate autonomous functionality. This ensures that components communicate effectively and that vital data is shared with the pilot-in-command (PIC) on the ground. 

Enhancing Human-Autonomous Interaction

Although our aircraft flies autonomously, human oversight remains essential. We conduct extensive simulations to test the interaction between our autonomous systems and the ground-based PIC, covering scenarios from standard operations to emergency responses and detect-and-avoid situations. Wisk’s Multi-Vehicle Supervisory System (MVSS) user interface is designed to provide accurate, actionable information to the PIC that enhances situational awareness and safety. By testing human-autonomy interactions in simulation, we’re able to refine these oversight roles and improve coordination between autonomous systems and human operators.

Preparing for Unpredictable Scenarios

Our simulation tools go beyond routine operations. We incorporate factors like weather, terrain, and Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) to create highly dynamic environments that resemble real-world conditions. We simulate adverse weather, unexpected obstacles, and potential system failures to prepare our autonomous systems for real-life challenges in a safe, controlled setting. Then, we can make adjustments to ensure that our autonomous aircraft can maintain reliability and safety under all unforeseen circumstances.

Post-Deployment Simulation for Continuous Improvement

Safe, autonomous flight doesn’t end once an aircraft is operational. We use simulation post-deployment to test and enhance autonomy software based on real-world performance continually. Insights gathered from actual flights feed back into simulations, creating a continuous improvement loop. This ensures that our autonomous systems evolve to meet real-world demands and enhance reliability and safety long after initial deployment.

By enabling comprehensive system integration, preparing for unpredictable situations, and supporting ongoing development, simulation shapes a robust and reliable foundation for autonomous flight. As the team at Wisk continuously refines our systems through simulation, we’re paving the way for a future where people can reach their destinations quickly, safely, and autonomously.

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