Expert system for an INS/DGPS integrated navigator installed in a Bell 206 helicopter

This paper presents a novel real-time application of fuzzy logic for an integrated navigation avionics suite. A knowledge-based system, which uses a fuzzy rule-base for a real-time INS/DGPS integrated navigation system on-board a Bell 206 helicopter, has been designed and developed. This knowledge base is developed in such a way as to detect aircraft maneuvering and tune the integration algorithm (Kalman filter) of the INS/DGPS system accordingly. The signal processing method developed for the integration of INS and DGPS data provides accurate navigation even during dynamic maneuvering of the aircraft, while taking advantage of low-cost modular equipment rather than costly inertial navigation systems.