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2021-08-01

AeroVironment Launches Crysalis, Next-gen Ground Control Solution

AeroVironment, Inc, recently introduced Crysalis, the company’s next-generation ground control solution. It is an integrated hardware and software-based ground control system (GCS) that provides command and control of compatible AeroVironment unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and their payloads, through an intuitive user experience (UX).

Built around three core elements – software, hardware, and antennas – Crysalis has been designed to make operating robotic systems easier. It offers complete interchangeability, either as modular elements or turnkey systems, both adaptable to meet specific mission requirements. Crysalis is cross-platform and compatible with Android, Microsoft Windows and Linux operating systems. The new GCS is available in multiple configurations ranging from lightweight and wearable to mobile and command centre systems that are modular and scalable.

The result is an adaptable, operationally simplified GCS solution that empowers users with an advanced suite of features and capabilities to help them succeed in the full spectrum.

Crysalis was designed with the operator in mind and its UX reduces cognitive load and training burden while enhancing situational awareness and battlefield collaboration. Through the easy-to-use Crysalis Control app, users can plan and execute flight missions as well as navigate and control UAS assets and payloads with one-click access to critical information, modes and telemetry meta data. Additional operational participants can gain enhanced situational awareness, share information and collaborate on tactical decisions by accessing telemetry and downlink data through remote video terminals, while also allowing them to capture data directly on their devices.

The GCS standardises the user experience across all AeroVironment small UAS platforms, simplifying the training requirements and operation of Puma, Raven and Wasp.

“With the introduction of Crysalis, we are streamlining command and control of our small UAS and empowering warfighters with actionable intelligence at the speed of war to increase their tactical decision making,” said Wahid Nawabi, AeroVironment chairman and chief executive officer. “Crysalis can be integrated into our portfolio of intelligent, multi-domain robotic systems and deliver easy-to-use, yet powerful new capabilities that enable our customers to succeed in full spectrum operations.”

The Crysalis GCS is available in scalable hardware configurations with all necessary software components pre-configured for quick mission deployment. These range from the Crysalis Ultralight GCS that provides full control of UAS and payloads through virtual control or tactile joysticks on a wearable smartphone configuration. The Ultralight Crysalis GCS will be as lightweight and portable as possible – weighing in at just three lbs including the Crysalis Controller Pro, batteries, cabling and Digital Data Link (DDL) transceiver, providing a wearable configuration and a 66 per cent reduction in weight versus its legacy GCS.

While the Crysalis Command GCS is a command centre configuration featuring a ruggedised laptop. Every Crysalis GCS configuration is natively compatible with AeroVironment’s DDL radios and antennas, is designed for plug-and-play compatibility with Nett Warrior and can integrate with both third-party command and control and battlefield management applications.

“As a software-based ecosystem, Crysalis will continue to develop and evolve based on customer needs and front-line user feedback with expanded aircraft command and control capabilities, software features and IoBT compatible functionality,” said Tom Vaneck, AeroVironment vice president of solution strategy.

Dynamic Mission Management

Furthermore, with a built-in, pre-flight checklist, mission planning wizard, and touch-screen waypoint controls, operators are able to initiate flight operations quickly and safely while dynamic mission management enables them to adjust mission objectives on the fly. Additional operational participants can gain enhanced situational awareness, share information and collaborate on tactical decisions by accessing telemetry and downlink data through remote video terminals, while also allowing them to capture data directly on their devices.

Backwards compatible with AeroVironment tactical UAS, antennas and DDL radios, current customers will be able to upgrade their GCS capabilities by adding the Crysalis Controller Pro with nominal retraining required. For new customers, the Crysalis software-based platform provides peace of mind because it’s future proofed – allowing for future software upgrades, feature improvements and expanded capabilities.

Moreover, the new GCS improves battlefield communication and collaboration by enabling users to easily share real-time information and coordinate mission-critical decisions. It also builds upon AeroVironment’s legacy GCS and adapts to today’s network-centric battlefield environment.

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