An Innovative Cloud-based Supervision System for the Integration of RPAS in Urban Environments

This paper proposes the outline of a Cloud-based supervision system for Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), which are operating in urban environments. The novelty of this proposed concept is dual: (i) a Cloud-based supervision system focusing on safety and robustness, (ii) the definition of technical requirements allowing the RPAS to fly over urban areas, as a possible evolution of drone use in future smart cities. A new concept for the regulatory issues is also proposed, compared with existing worldwide regulations. The Cloud framework is intended to be an automated system for path planning and control of RPAS flying under its coverage, and not limited to conventional remote control as if supervised by a human pilot. Future works will be based on the experimental validation of the proposed concept in an urban area of Turin (Italy).