ULS-ProCopter Interface Control Document

ULSDC-PBICD070425 · version 1.0.0 · issued June 10, 2025
The numbered PDF is the controlled copy: download it from the portal.

Introduction

Purpose

This document outlines the interfaces between the ULS-ProCopter system components, including the transmitter, receiver, and autopilot systems (Ardupilot and PX4 and similar).

Scope

This document is intended for use by system engineers, integrators, and developers working with ULS-ProCopter systems. It provides detailed information on the interfaces between the system components, ensuring seamless integration and operation.

System Components

Transmitter (Ground Unit)

Figure: ULS-ProCopter Transmitter

A transmitter is a device placed on the ground (platform, moving object). It emits a signal in the Infrared range and serves as a kind of beacon. Transmitter marks position for drone landing.

The primary function of the transmitter is to continuously send out a coded signal that can be detected and interpreted by the receiver unit onboard the ULS-ProCopter. This signal contains critical information needed for the operation of the ULS-ProCopter, such as positional data, commands, and system status.

Receiver (Onboard Unit)

Figure: ULS-ProCopter Receiver

A receiver is a device that is placed on board an aircraft.

The receiver decodes this signal to derive flight information such as positional coordinates, real-time transmitter status updates, and landing guidance. It interprets the data to navigate accurately and ensure drone follows the intended flight path. It provides feedback to the autopilot systems, such as Ardupilot and PX4, to adjust the flight parameters as needed for optimal and safety landing or hovering above.

Interface Overview

Figure: ULS-ProCopter System Interface Overview

Transmitter to control PC interface (external sensors):

Data Type:

• Status information
• Control signals
• Transmitter configuration
• External IMU/COMPASS data

Connection Types

• CAN Bus - For network communication
• USB - For configuration and firmware updates
• UART - For serial communication with external sensors

Pinout:

Figure: ULS-ProCopter Transmitter Pinout Diagram

Table: Transmitter 8-pin Main Connector Pinout

Table: Transmitter 4-pin Connector Pinout

Transmitter to Receiver Interface:

The transmitter and receiver use an optical interface to exchange data. Transmission use IR emission 940 nanometers. Data transmission is only in the direction from the transmitter to the receiver.

Data Type:

• Position encoded
• Status encoded data (Transmitter orientation and instructions)

Connection Type

• Optical IR 940nm - Infrared optical link

Receiver to Autopilot and Receiver to PC Interfaces

Data Type:

• Mavlink messages
• ULS-Blitz frames
• ASCII protocol

Connection Types

• UART - Serial communication with autopilot
• CAN - Network communication
• USB - Direct PC connection

Pinout:

Figure: Receiver Top Side Connector Variant

Figure: Receiver Strait Variant

Figure: ULS-ProCopter Receiver connector

Table: Receiver JX1 Connector Pinout (External Power and Control)

Powering Interfaces

Figure: ULS-ProCopter Powering Interfaces and Electrical Characteristics

Transmitter Electrical Characteristics

• Supply Voltage: 12.0V - 25V
• Supply Current: 2A
• Power Consumption: 18.1 W

Receiver Electrical Characteristics

• Supply Voltage: 5.0V
• Supply Current: 0.6A
• Power Consumption: 3 W

Functional Interfaces


Figure: ULS-ProCopter Functional Interfaces and Data Flow

Data Exchange

• Control PC used to configure and view status of transmitter.
• Control PC used to set configuration of receivers.
• Control PC (or embedded equipment instead control pc) can be used to send control signals (On/off, compass override information)
• External IMU/Compass equipment can be used to override internal IMU/compass information.
• Receiver accept data from transmitter over IR signal. This data include position field information and ground unit IMU data.
• Receiver accept NED and Attitude information from autopilot to be able convert coordinate system that can be accepted by autopilot.
• Several Receivers can communicate to be able calculate vehicle orientation YAW.
• Receiver send position offset data to autopilot.

Mechanical interfaces

Transmitter mechanical interface:

Figure: ULS-ProCopter Transmitter Mechanical Interface and Mounting Dimensions

Receiver mechanical interface:

Figure: ULS-ProCopter Receiver Mechanical Interface and Mounting Dimensions

Environmental Conditions - Industrial Grade

Equipment is designed to operate reliably in demanding environmental conditions typical of aerospace, industrial automation, and outdoor applications.

Operating Temperature Range

• Standard operating range: -20°C to +55°C
• Covers most industrial and outdoor applications
• Reliable performance across temperature extremes
• No performance degradation within specified range

Humidity Tolerance

• Relative humidity: Up to 70% (non-condensing)
• Protected against moisture in typical operating conditions
• Suitable for outdoor and semi-protected installations
• Condensation prevention through sealed design

Ingress Protection

• IP67 rated (Dust tight and water immersion resistant)
  • 6 - Complete protection against dust ingress
  • 7 - Protected against temporary immersion in water (up to 1 meter depth for 30 minutes)
• Suitable for harsh industrial environments
• Protected against rain, splashing, and temporary submersion
• Dust-tight sealing for contaminated environments

Storage Conditions

• Storage temperature: -40°C to +70°C
• Relative humidity: Up to 95% (non-condensing)
• Long-term storage in industrial facilities

Operational Environment Standards

• Designed to meet industrial equipment requirements
• Suitable for UAV/drone applications
• Outdoor installation capable
• Protected against:
  • Dust and particulate matter
  • Water spray and rain
  • Temporary water immersion
  • Temperature fluctuations
  • High humidity

Change Control

All changes to this document must be reviewed and approved by the relevant technical leads and stakeholders