USI Exam Study Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is Ground Sample Distance?

The distance between ground control points

The height of the camera above the ground

The size of a pixel projected on the ground (correct)

The resolution of the image

What variables make up the formula for calculating Ground Sample Distance?

Sensor altitude, sensor width, image width, focal length

Can you compare the relative and absolute accuracy of geospatial data used in RPAS operations?

Relative accuracy is the consistency of spatial relations in images, while absolute accuracy is the accuracy relative to known ground coordinates.

What do camera depression angle and azimuth mean in the context of RPAS operations?

Depression angle is the angle from the sensor to the ground, and azimuth is the angle on the horizontal plane. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between a low oblique and a high oblique aerial image?

A low oblique image does not show the horizon, while a high oblique image views the horizon. Signup and view all the answers

What are the units of measurement commonly used in RPAS operations for various metrics?

AGL, knots, meters or nautical/statute miles, zulu time, knots of wind, inches of mercury Signup and view all the answers

What coordinate systems are commonly employed in RPAS operations?

Geographic coordinate system, Universal transverse mercator Signup and view all the answers

How do the objectives of aerial survey missions differ from those of aerial inspection missions?

Aerial survey views large areas, while aerial inspection closely examines wear and risks in detail. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between front lap and side lap in relation to an aerial survey mission?

Front lap refers to the first pass of the area, while side lap refers to the last pass to the side. Signup and view all the answers

What is the generic workflow used to plan and execute an RPAS mission?

Develop a preliminary plan, visit the worksite, gather in situ data, conduct a safety review. Signup and view all the answers

Differentiate between area of interest and area of operation regarding RPAS mission planning.

Area of interest refers to specific targets, while area of operation identifies potential hazards. Signup and view all the answers

What does RPAS mission planning mean by launch and recovery site?

The location where the pilot takes off and lands the AV. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the concept of mission objectives in RPAS mission planning.

Mission objectives define the purpose and desired outcomes of an aerial mission. Signup and view all the answers

Identify official sources for airspace and related information.

LAANC for airspace authorizations. Signup and view all the answers

Differentiate between Class E airspace types (E4, E3, E2) and explain the authorization required.

E4 and E3 do not need ATC authorization, E4 is associated with Class D airspace, E3 with Class C airspace, while E2 requires authorization. Signup and view all the answers

How can you identify Airspace and Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR) specific to an operational area?

Use a LAANC authorization. Signup and view all the answers

What information can be determined by using an Airport Facility Maps (LAANC)?

Controlled airspace coverage and height/time restrictions. Signup and view all the answers

How can you determine if a proposed operation falls within daylight, civil twilight, or night conditions?

By observing cloud coverage, the sun, and the moon. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between a METAR and a TAF, and which one is more suited to preliminary flight planning?

METAR gives current conditions, while TAF anticipates conditions; TAFs are better for preliminary flight planning. Signup and view all the answers

What's the process for identifying the correct air traffic frequency to monitor in a specific operational area?

Using a Common Traffic Advisory Frequency to communicate with other pilots. Signup and view all the answers

What is the common landing frequency used at most heliports unless published otherwise?

123.025 MHz. Signup and view all the answers

What other regulations might impact a proposed RPAS operation besides airspace-related regulations?

Light levels, flight over people, flight over national parks, flight over wildfires. Signup and view all the answers

How do you determine a specific operational area's launch and recovery elevation?

Using appropriate altitude (AGL, MSL, density altitude). Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between Mean Sea Level (MSL) and Above Ground Level (AGL)?

MSL is the height relative to sea level, while AGL is the height relative to the ground. Signup and view all the answers

What factors contribute to a given operational area's Minimum Safe Altitude (MSA)?

Terrain elevation, height of obstacles, minimum obstacle clearance. Signup and view all the answers

What is metadata in the context of aerial images?

Data that describes other forms of data. Signup and view all the answers

How can data storage be a limiting mission factor for an RPAS mission?

It can limit how big the area of interest is. Signup and view all the answers

What factors affect the required energy (number of batteries) to complete an RPAS mission?

Temperature changes the battery life significantly. Signup and view all the answers

What factors contribute to the suitability of a launch and recovery site for RPAS operations?

Rocks, gravel, sand, vegetation, tall grass, fences, irrigation systems, wildlife, and ground slope. Signup and view all the answers

How do you assess surface conditions at a launch and recovery site?

By using a site analysis or NOTED. Signup and view all the answers

Identify potential obstacles within a proposed operational area for RPAS missions.

Rocks, gravel, sand, vegetation, tall grass, fences, irrigation systems, wildlife. Signup and view all the answers

How do you evaluate the proximity to people and property to ensure safe RPAS operations?

By using the operational volume or the 4D space where the aircraft occupies. Signup and view all the answers

What considerations are important when determining ground support and access requirements for RPAS operations?

Ground control station, access control, maintenance, security, power availability. Signup and view all the answers

What is viewshed analysis, and how is it used in visual line-of-sight RPAS operations?

Determines the area visible from any point, identifying hidden areas. Signup and view all the answers

What are the dimensions and functions of a Touchdown and Lift-Off (TLOF) area?

Size of the AV and provides an aim point for the pilot. Signup and view all the answers

What are the dimensions and functions of a Final Approach and Takeoff (FATO) area?

Four times the size of the air vehicle, acts as a buffer zone. Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of a Safety Zone surrounding a Launch and Recovery Zone (LRZ)?

Provides a buffer where no non-essential crew members should be. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum Ground Risk Buffer that should be used during planning?

A 1:1 ratio for ground risk buffer. Signup and view all the answers

How can you generate a Site Survey using the NOTED framework?

By following the specific steps of the acronym. Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of a formal safety review in RPAS operations?

To identify risks and discuss mitigation strategies. Signup and view all the answers

Who should constitute the safety review board?

Director of safety, operations, and maintenance. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between a Safety Review and a Flight Risk Assessment Tool?

A safety review covers various types of safety, while a FRAT focuses on flight risk. Signup and view all the answers

Within the Operational Risk Management framework, who should decide if a high-risk mission should proceed?

A high-risk mission should not proceed. Signup and view all the answers

What type of fire extinguisher is required to handle lithium polymer (LiPo) battery fires?

Class D. Signup and view all the answers

What are the requirements for transmitting on the aviation spectrum from outside an aircraft?

N/A Signup and view all the answers

What are the best practices for charging lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries?

Use a charging bag to lessen the effects of a battery fire. Signup and view all the answers

What Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required for flying an RPAS?

Eye and ear protection, head, hand, and foot protection, safety jacket or vest. Signup and view all the answers

What is the protocol for lifting heavy equipment to reduce the risk of back injuries?

Lift with legs and not back, keep back straight. Signup and view all the answers

What are the risks of exposure, and what strategies can prevent them?

Many medical risks; appropriate solutions can combat them. Signup and view all the answers

What are the risks of dehydration for a remote pilot and crew?

Dizziness, loss of consciousness, stroke. Signup and view all the answers

How can a crew reduce tripping and fall hazards at the job site?

By keeping clear walkways without tripping hazards. Signup and view all the answers

What measures reduce the likelihood of lacerations and crushing injuries on the job site?

Use machine guards to protect crew from machines. Signup and view all the answers

What shop inspections are necessary to ensure equipment readiness for RPAS operations?

Access the AV and all associated components. Signup and view all the answers

Which components of RPAS include hazardous materials?

The batteries. Signup and view all the answers

What precautions are necessary for shipping hazardous materials related to RPAS operations?

Proper labeling and proper item packing. Signup and view all the answers

What are the steps required to conduct field inspections to verify equipment functionality?

Ensure that the entire AV is good to fly. Signup and view all the answers

What are the optimal environmental conditions for maintaining electronic components in working order?

The optimal environment involves temperature and humidity levels. Signup and view all the answers

What is ingress protection rating in RPAS operations?

Ingress protection ratings show the component's ability against water and solid objects. Signup and view all the answers

What are the three possible options for a go/no-go decision?

Go, no go, postpone. Signup and view all the answers

How do weather conditions, aircraft status, crew health, air traffic volume, payload, and communications connectivity impact the decision to proceed with a launch?

If these do not meet standards, they affect the ability to proceed. Signup and view all the answers

How can a Flight Risk Assessment Tool assess the risk of a mission?

By identifying risks and solving how they can be mitigated. Signup and view all the answers

What is the acronym IMSAFE, and how is it used in aviation?

Illness, Medication, Sleep, Alcohol, Fatigue, Eating. Signup and view all the answers

How is the AMEND framework used to respond to unexpected situations?

By giving the pilot steps in case something becomes compromised. Signup and view all the answers

What are loss of link, loss of control, controlled flight into terrain (CFIT), and air traffic conflict in the context of RPAS operations?

Risks associated with contingency planning. Signup and view all the answers

What are the RACE and PASS protocols for dealing with a job site fire?

RACE deals with the actual fire; PASS is for fire extinguisher operation. Signup and view all the answers

List the priorities in the event of injury to ground personnel.

First responder assesses the person, stabilize the person. Signup and view all the answers

What are the responsibilities of a remote pilot in implementing the company's Emergency Response Plan?

To know emergency contacts. Signup and view all the answers

According to the OBJECTIVES framework, what essential information should be included in a pre-mission briefing?

Objectives, boundaries, jobs, equipment, contingency, timing, identification, variables, environment. Signup and view all the answers

What is the framework used during a post-mission debrief to facilitate mission analysis?

Replay, Reconstruct, Reflect, Redirect. Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for generating an After-Action Report?

The remote pilot in command. Signup and view all the answers

How can an After-Action Report drive improvement within a flight service provider?

It can identify things that were initially overlooked. Signup and view all the answers

When is it appropriate to file an incident report?

In cases of loss of consciousness, large cost damage, serious injury. Signup and view all the answers

What information should be documented and retained following an incident?

Date, time, location, description, RPAS info, operator info, witnesses, weather conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What are the markers of professionalism relevant to remote pilots?

Knowledge, examination for mastery, lifelong learning, membership in professional organizations. Signup and view all the answers

What social norms form the basis of remote pilot standards of ethical conduct?

Ethics provide this foundation. Signup and view all the answers

What are a remote pilot's responsibilities to their employer?

To produce desired results and follow company rules. Signup and view all the answers

What are a remote pilot's responsibilities to their customers?

To deliver the information they expect and likely paid for. Signup and view all the answers

What are a remote pilot's responsibilities to the public at large?

To keep the public safe and respect privacy. Signup and view all the answers

What are a remote pilot's responsibilities within the greater aviation system?

To ensure the system stays a safe place to fly. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Ground Sample Distance

Refers to the size of a pixel projected on the ground, impacting image resolution.

Ground Sample Distance Calculation

Calculated using sensor altitude, sensor width, image width, and focal length.

Accuracy in Geospatial Data

Relative accuracy: Consistency of spatial relationships in images.
Absolute accuracy: Accuracy compared to known ground coordinates.

Camera Angles in RPAS Operations

Camera depression angle: Angle from sensor to ground.
Azimuth: Horizontal angle indicating left-right orientation.

Aerial Image Types

Low oblique images: Camera almost directly below, horizon not visible.
High oblique images: Taken at a high depression angle, horizon visible.

Measurement Units in RPAS

Commonly used units include AGL for altitude, knots for airspeed, meters/miles for distance, zulu time for time, and inches of mercury for atmospheric pressure.

Coordinate Systems for Positioning

Geographic coordinate system uses latitude and longitude.
Universal Transverse Mercator separates the Earth into 60 zones using easting and northing coordinates.

Aerial Missions

Aerial survey: Focuses on large area coverage.
Aerial inspection: Detailed examination of specific assets for integrity and risks.

Survey Mission Overlaps

Front lap: The initial pass of the area.
Side lap: Last pass, adjacent to the area of operations.

RPAS Mission Workflow

Involves preliminary planning, site visits for data gathering, followed by a safety review.

Areas in Mission Planning

Area of interest: Specific targets for survey.
Area of operation: Identifies potential hazards for the operation.

Launch and Recovery Site

Designated location for taking off and landing the aerial vehicle.

Mission Objectives

Defined purpose and desired outcomes of an aerial mission.

Airspace Authorization

LAANC serves as the primary source for airspace authorizations, TFRs, and operational data.

Class E Airspace Types

E4: No ATC authorization needed; related to Class D airspace.
E3: Also requires no authorization, connects controlled to uncontrolled airspace.
E2: Requires authorization, associated with limited control tower services.

Identifying Airspace Restrictions

Use LAANC authorization to identify airspace and TFRs in an operational area.

Airport Facility Maps

Provide details on controlled airspace coverage and restrictions.

Flight Timing Assessment

Assess daylight conditions by evaluating cloud cover, sun, and moon positions.

METAR vs. TAF

METAR provides current weather; TAF gives anticipated conditions, preferable for preliminary planning.

Air Traffic Frequency Monitoring

Common traffic advisory frequency should be monitored for safe communication.

Helicopter Landing Frequency

Standard frequency at most heliports is 123.025 MHz.

Regulatory Considerations

Additional regulations include light levels, flight over people, and national parks.

Launch and Recovery Elevation

Determined based on appropriate elevation references such as AGL or MSL.

MSL vs. AGL

MSL: Height relative to sea level.
AGL: Height relative to the ground directly below the aerial vehicle.

Minimum Safe Altitude (MSA) Factors

Based on terrain elevation, obstacle heights, and minimum clearance requirements.

Metadata in Aerial Imagery

Data that describes other data, particularly important for image analysis.

Data Storage Limitations

Storage capacity constrains the size of the area that can be surveyed.

Energy Factors for RPAS Missions

Temperature significantly affects battery life and energy requirements.

Launch and Recovery Site Suitability

Consider surface conditions, vegetation, obstacles, and wildlife for operational safety.

Surface Condition Assessment

Conduct site analyses to evaluate conditions at the launch and recovery site.

Evaluating Proximity to People

Assess using operational volume to ensure safety and compliance.

Ground Support Requirements

Important considerations include access control, maintenance facilities, and power availability.

Viewshed Analysis

Determines visibility from specific points, ensuring all areas of interest are observable.

Touchdown and Lift-Off (TLOF) Area

Size based on the aerial vehicle, serves as an aim point for recovery.

Final Approach and Takeoff (FATO) Area

Four times the size of the aerial vehicle, provides a buffer for safe landings.

Safety Zones

Around Launch and Recovery Zones to keep non-essential personnel away.

Ground Risk Buffer

Suggested minimum is a 1:1 ratio to ground altitude for safety planning.

Site Survey Procedure

Follow the NOTED framework for comprehensive site assessments.

Formal Safety Reviews

Aim to identify and mitigate risks associated with RPAS operations.

Safety Review Board Composition

Should include the director of safety, operations, and maintenance.

Safety Review vs. Flight Risk Assessment Tool

Safety reviews cover broader safety issues, while FRAT focuses on flight risks.

High-Risk Mission Decisions

Decisions must be made to avoid proceeding with high-risk missions.

Fire Safety Equipment for LiPo Batteries

Class D fire extinguishers are necessary for lithium polymer battery fires.

Aviation Spectrum Regulations

Specific requirements for transmitting from outside an aircraft.

Best Practices for Charging LiPo Batteries

Charging bags recommended to mitigate battery fire risks.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for RPAS

Required PPE includes eye/ear protection, head/hand/foot protection, and high visibility vests.

Lifting Protocol for Heavy Equipment

Proper technique involves lifting with legs and maintaining a straight back.

Risk of Exposure and Prevention

Identifying medical risks and implementing appropriate solutions is essential.

Dehydration Risks for Remote Pilots

May lead to dizziness, unconsciousness, or serious health crises like strokes.

Workplace Hazard Prevention

Reduce risks of tripping or falls by maintaining clear walkways.

Injury Prevention Measures

Use machine guards to prevent lacerations and crush injuries.

Equipment Readiness Inspections

Regular checks on aerial vehicles and components for operational safety.

Hazardous Materials in RPAS Components

Batteries are primary sources of hazardous materials in RPAS.

Shipping Hazardous Materials

Ensure proper labeling and secure packaging during transport.

Field Inspections Procedure

Verify the functionality of all aerial vehicle components before a mission.

Environmental Conditions for Electronics

Maintain specific temperature and humidity levels for optimal performance.

Ingress Protection Ratings (IP)

Indicates the ability of components to resist water and solid objects.

Go/No-Go Decision Options

Three potential outcomes: go, no-go, or postpone.

Launch Decision Factors

Weather, aircraft status, crew health, and other variables influence launch viability.

Flight Risk Assessment Tool Function

Identifies and mitigates risks associated with a mission.

IMSAFE Acronym

Used for assessing personal fitness to fly: Illness, Medication, Sleep, Alcohol, Fatigue, Eating.

AMEND Framework

Offers a structured approach for pilots to address unexpected situations.

RPAS Operational Risks

Includes loss of link, loss of control, CFIT, and air traffic conflicts.

Fire Response Protocols

RACE for fire management, PASS for operating fire extinguishers.

Injury Response Priorities

Access the injured, stabilize them, and administer CPR if trained.

Remote Pilot Responsibilities in Emergencies

Must be familiar with emergency contacts and protocols.

Pre-Mission Briefing Elements

OBJECTIVES framework includes mission purpose, boundaries, equipment, and contingency plans.

Post-Mission Debrief Framework

Utilize Replay, Reconstruct, Reflect, Redirect for thorough mission analysis.

After-Action Report Responsibility

Generated by the remote pilot in command following mission completion.

After-Action Report Improvement

Serves as a tool to highlight areas for improvement and learning.

Incident Report Criteria

Required for significant issues such as serious injuries or property damage.

Incident Documentation Requirements

Date, time, location, detailed description, and relevant witness information should be recorded.

Professionalism in Remote Pilots

Involves a commitment to knowledge mastery, ongoing education, and ethical standards.

Ethical Conduct in Remote Piloting

Based on established social norms and ethics.

Employer Responsibilities for Remote Pilots

Delivering expected results and adhering to company policies.

Customer Responsibilities for Remote Pilots

Providing requested information with accuracy and timeliness.

Public Responsibilities of Remote Pilots

Ensuring public safety and respecting privacy.

Responsibilities within Aviation System

Contributing to an overall safe flying environment.

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Description

This quiz covers essential concepts related to Ground Sample Distance and the accuracy of geospatial data used in RPAS operations. It is designed to help students prepare effectively for their USI exams by testing their knowledge of key terms and formulas in this field. Use these flashcards to reinforce your understanding and recall of important definitions and comparisons.