Tech Library

About ConOps

(Excerpt from NASA – ConOps Planning and Autonomy)
ConOps refers to a very high-level, stakeholder-oriented graphical statement of the operational plan for a assumed system.
It is particularly focused on how the system will be used to achieve end-user goals.
・Indicates the system’s operational limits, etc., and clarifies the requirements and functions for users.
・Detailed description of the mission overview and operational scenarios

Figure shows an example of ConOps at NASA

ConOps for UAS

The ConOps required for Type Certification of UAS is key to how UAS is designed, manufactured, tested, used, maintained, and inspected, as the primary stakeholders are the manufacturer of UAS and the State or registered inspection organization that certifies it.

The following is a summary of JCAB Circular No. 8-001 “Inspection Guidelines for Safety and Uniformity Standards in Type Certification, etc. of Unmanned Aircraft”.

Concept of Operations (CONOPS) shall include, at a minimum, a description of the following in sufficient detail to determine test and operational limit values and ranges
(Indicate that the operational scheme is appropriate for the aircraft’s performance and function, and clarify the definition of the expected operations of the unmanned aircraft)

・Type of intended operations (specific operations including logistics, inspections, etc., flight profiles, etc.)
・Unmanned aircraft specifications (aircraft size, weight, capabilities, performance, safety measures, etc.)
・Weather conditions (rain, fog, snow, lightning, etc.)
・Responsibility of the user, the person flying the unmanned aircraft, and other related parties (definition of operational personnel, nature and responsibility of tasks to be performed, safety management system, etc.)
・Control stations, auxiliary equipment, and other Associated Elements required to conform to safety standards: AE (radio, GCS, takeoff/landing gear, etc.)
・Radio communication capabilities used for unmanned aircraft operations (command, control and communication frequencies, bandwidth, strength, etc.)
・Operational parameters (population density, geographic boundaries, airspace, takeoff/landing areas, congestion in the operational area, communication with air traffic control, in-sight or out-of-sight flights, spacing from aircraft, etc.)
・Collision avoidance equipment (DAA, etc.), if required for certification