HoneyComb Corporation | 7929 SW Burns Way STE A, Wilsonville, OR 97070 

# COA Process Guide

HoneyComb Corporation

AgDroneTM System ( 2015 Edition )
Agricultural Scouting & Mapping System



### Introduction

HoneyComb is committed to serving its customers and assisting with the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Certificate of Authorization (COA) process. The guide provides a starting point

conce rning technical specifications and operational procedures ; however, c ustomers will need to provide specific info rmation and augment/modify components of the application to match their proposed use case

.



### FAA Jurisdiction

The guide is intended for customers operating within the United States under FAA jurisdiction.

Customers outside the United States or operating unde r conditions exempt from F AA jurisdiction should

consider seek

ing outside counsel. HoneyComb can provide further assistance at the customer’s request.



### Reference Material

The FAA provides information on its website relating to the COA process. A sample application and additional information is provided here . We encourage our customers to review the site for the latest

in formation.



### All information is provided without warranty and is subject to change. This document is

provided for informational purposes and is not legally binding.

Please contact COA@honeycombcorp.com for updates and/or the latest revision.HoneyComb Corporation | 7929 SW Burns Way STE A, Wilsonville, OR 97070



### § 1: Proponent Information *

Select from populated proponent list or include new information.

Please review requirements for proponent qualification or seek legal counsel to assist with classification.

*HoneyComb can refer further assist ance on this section

/subsection

.


### § 2: Point of Contact Information *

Indicate who will be the primary contact for working through the process.

* HoneyComb can refer further assist ance on this section

/subsection

.


### § 3: Operational Description

This section provides details on when, where, and how the aircraft will be operated.



### Request Effective Period

Please check with the FAA for allowable duration. The end date may not be more than 2 years in the

future.



### Operational Conditions

Light Out Operation: No

VFR Operation: Yes

IFR Operation: No

Day Operation: Yes

Night Operation No



### Class of Airspace

Class “A”: No

Class “B”: No

Class “C”: No

Class “D”: No

Class “E”: No

Class “G”: Yes



### Other Subs ections *

Location

, Program Executive Summary

, Operational Summary

HoneyComb’s system is designed for agricultural and forestry applications. O ther industries may include surveying, mining, offshore, mineral & gas exploration, environmental monitoring, and others.

HoneyComb’s systems are not designed for surveillance or military applications.

* HoneyComb can refer further assist ance on this section

/subsection

.HoneyComb Corporation | 7929 SW Burns Way STE A, Wilsonville, OR 97070



### § 4: System Description

The AgDroneTM s ystem is classified as a small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS). It flies autonomously via an autopilot onboard. The sUAS can also be forced into fly

- by

- wire (semi

- autonomous) mode which allows the operator to send commands to the aircraft via an RC transmitter while still operating within some stability parameters from t he autopilot.

The system includes multiple cameras, autopilot, GPS , electronic speed controller, radio s, antennas,

comp uter, RC transmitter, batteries, chargers, maintenance parts

, mission planning and data management software, and user manuals. Specifica tions and other details of the AgDroneTM s ystem’s significant components are listed in the table below.

Physical Specifications
Wing Fixed

- wing

Weight 4.75 lb. (fully loaded)

Wing span 49 in.

Dimensions (max) 49 X 14.5 X 5.4 in.

Airframe material (internal) Expanded polystyrene

Airframe material (external) Kevlar

- composite exoskeleton

Internal structure PVC frame

Powerplant System

Motor type Brushless electric pusher

Power class 575 W

Propeller APC 10x6 electric

Speed control Electronic, automatic

Battery

Type Lithium

- polymer

Cell count 3S

Nomial voltage 11.1 V

Capacity 8000 mAH

Charge station Multi

- port LiPo charger (pre

- programmed)

Imaging system

Visible 16.0 MP

Multispectral 16.0 MP (NDVI modified)

Coverage (400 ft. altitude) 858 acres per flight

Ground resolution (400 ft. altitude) 1.26 in.

Data storage Micro SD card 8 GB

Trigger method Automatic, simultaneous (dual)

Radio Communications
Mission planning computer Windows OS

RC transmitter DSMX 2.4 GHz

Telemetry antenna 3DR 915 MHzHoneyComb Corporation | 7929 SW Burns Way STE A, Wilsonville, OR 97070

Flight Modes & Automation

Automatic (auto) Op erator commands enabled ( restricted by autopilot )

Fly

- by

- wire (FBWA) Operator commands enabled ( restricted by autopilot )

Return

- to

- launch (RTL) Operator commands enabled (restricted by autopilot)

Lost

- link Default to RTL (no communications)

Software
Flight path creation Operator

Flight path guidance Automatic

Autonomous flight stability Pre

- planned waypoints

Autonomous landing Pre

- planned waypoints

Fail

- safe routines Battery usage, radio link, operator command

Data transfer HoneyComb Connect

Operations
System setup time 5

- 10 min.

Launch method Hand

- throw (launcher capable)

Takeoff Angle 12 deg.

Landing method Belly

- skid

Landing surface Flat ground

- grass, graded dirt, gravel, pavement

Recommended landing space 100 x 400 ft.

Minimum landing space 15 x 60 ft.HoneyComb Corporation | 7929 SW Burns Way STE A, Wilsonville, OR 97070 Significant system components are shown below.

Figure 1 : AgDroneTM s ystem

, Rugged Case

, Parts &

Accessories Figure 2 : Windows Tablet for Mission Planning & Flight Monitoring

Figure 3 : RC Transmitter (fly

- by

- wire controls) DX6i. Figure 4 : 3DR 915MHz Telemetry Radio.

Figure 5: LiPo Battery Charge Station Figure 6 : LiPo Batteries & Protective Bag



### AgDroneTM System

The AgDroneTM s ystem is comprised of a blended fixed

- wing design with a n EPS foam core and Kevlar

composite exoskeleton for added strength. Preconfigured cameras are installed inside the payload bay

. T wo activ e control surfaces are utilized for fligh t stability

– the elevons and winglets.HoneyComb Corporation | 7929 SW Burns Way STE A, Wilsonville, OR 97070



### Control/Ground Station

The control station is composed of a single Windows

- based tablet with a ruggedized case. The telemetry radio connects to the tablet via USB, which communicates with the autopilot system. Only o ne aircraft can be flown per ground station.



### Ground Control Software

The Windows

- based tablet (PC) attaches to a telemetry antenna and is configured with mission planning

software and flight statistics. Real

- time flight data includes airspeed, ground speed , heading, attitude, direction, distance, altitude, throttle, battery level, throttle, and any applicable warnings.

The flight software can be used to override the current flight and commence return to home or landing procedures. In addition, the system ca n be placed into fly

- by

- wire mode by the pilot using the controller.



### Control Link

A telemetry radio is located a board the AgDroneTM aircraft

. Operating frequency is 915MHz. and t he link provides real

- time telemetry information and allows the operator to send comman ds to the system remotely or during flight.

A second radio is embedded in the contr oller and aboard the AgDroneTM aircraft for fly

- by

- wire override. The radio operates at 2.4 GHz and is used as a secondary safety measure.



### Certified TSO Components

No TSO Certified components are utilized.



### § 5: Performance Characteristics

Performance
Cruise speed 29 mph

Stall speed 20 mph

Max. speed (no descent) 51 mph

Max. maneuvering speed 49 mph

Max. turn rate 40 deg. per sec.

Max. climb rate (45 deg.) 13 ft. per sec.

Max. flight duration 80 min. (RTL initialized at approx. 55 min.)

Max. range 31 mi. (RTL initialized at approx. 26 mi.)

Max. altitude 400 ft. above ground level (FAA regulated)

Max. takeoff weight 6.5 lbs.

Max. LiPo battery capacity (11.1 V) 8 amp

- hr.

Operating temperature range (F) 10

- 120 deg. (recommended: 50

- 100 deg.)

Max. operating wind speed 25 mph (flight) 18 mph (imagery)

Max. RC command range 2.8 mi. (recommended: within VLOS)

Max. transport case weight 80 lbs.HoneyComb Corporation | 7929 SW Burns Way STE A, Wilsonville, OR 97070



### Preflight Checks

1. Prefetch map data of the flight area

2. Download previously collected mission data

3. Ensure that batteries and powered components are fully charged

4. Clean lens covers and clear airframe of debris

5. Ensure that motor bracket is securely fastened to airframe

6. Inspect pr opel ler for structural defects , remove debris and ensure smooth operation

7. Check elevons and servos for structural defects or obstructions

8. Ensure that winglets and lid cover are securely fastened to the airframe

9. Clear launch zone of debris and unnecessary pers onnel

10. Check surrounding airspace for obstacles and adverse weather conditions

11. Check that Mission Planner has 7 or more sa tellites available

12. Check that altitude (at ground station) is approximately 0 meters

13. Check that distance to MAV is less than 50 meters



### Launch/Takeoff Procedure

1. Power

- on Components

– Boot the system in the order listed below

a) Power

- on RC transmitter in fly

- by

- wire mode with throttle at 0%

b) Power

- on mission planning computer (telemetry antenna attached)

c) Connect battery to the AgDroneTM aircraft (disarmed

– blinking red light)

d) Listen for start

- up beeps (multiple tones), wait for readiness beep (long tone)

I MPORTANT : Boot the AgDroneTM aircraft facing north for best orientation accuracy.

2. Mission Planning

a) Open Mission Planner and create or load a mission

b) Ad just flight path for landscape and weather conditions

c) Click CONNECT and wait for Mission Planner to connect to the AgDroneTM s ystem

d) Click Write WPs to load the mission onto the AgDroneTM s ystem

3. Launch the AgDroneTM

I MPORTANT : Carry the AgDroneTM aircraft so that it is facing forward for best orientation accuracy.

a) Approach the launch zone ( the AgDroneTM system should remain disarmed)

b) Arm the AgDroneTM system (push and hold arming button until light is solid

- red)

c) Test elevon function (move directional stick on RC transmitter)

d) Grip the AgDroneTM aircraft by the front of the wingHoneyComb Corporation | 7929 SW Burns Way STE A, Wilsonville, OR 97070

e) Select auto mode from the RC transmitter and wait for the propeller to spin up

f) Hand

- launch the AgDroneTM aircraft so it travels a flat and level path into the wind

g) Observe mission, maintaining visual line

- of

- sight (VLOS) of the Ag DroneTM aircraft

h) Adjust flight path and assist with controls as needed for obstacles and landing

The pilot in command observes flight data statistics and holds the controller should manual override be required. The observer watches the aircraft during flight and cal ls out conditions and alerts the pilot to any air conflicts or people moving into the flight zone. Pilot is tasked to avoid any off

- nominal conditions identified by the observer.

4. Landing & Recovery

- “ j ” and “ k ” apply to a failed

- launch situation a) Landing path is preprogrammed into the mission

b) Observer notifies Pilot that landing sequence has commenced

c) Pilot and Observer ensure that the landing zone is clear

d) T he AgDroneTM aircraft descends and glides to landing waypoint automatically

e) Pilot confirms landing and selects f ly

- by

- wire mode (throttle 0%)

f) Observer d isarm s the AgDroneTM system (push

- hold arm ing button until light flashes red)

g) Observer returns the AgDroneTM aircraft to the ground station and disconnect s the battery

h) Down load mission data (unless reattempting mission after a failed launch)

i) Record post

- flight notes and discrepancies in logbook

j) Perform preflight inspection to ensure airworthiness before the next mission

k) Click Write WPs to resend waypoints to AgDroneTM s ystem before reattempting a mission

I MPORTANT : The RC transmitter should remain on when recovering and rebooting the AgDroneTM

s ystem

.

5. Collect Mission Data

a) Reboot the AgDroneTM aircraft (remain disarmed

– light blinking red)

b) Extract SD cards containing imagery data

c) Start HoneyComb Connect and download mission data

d) Reload SD cards and power

- off the AgDroneTM s ystem

e) Upload mission data via HoneyComb Connect

f) Access mission data from HoneyComb online user account



### § 6: Airworthiness

Criteria must be met by the client in coordination with FAA.

* HoneyComb cannot provide further assist ance on this section

/subsection

.HoneyComb Corporation | 7929 SW Burns Way STE A, Wilsonville, OR 97070



### § 7: Procedures

The FAA outlines specific requirements concerning predetermined events as outlined below.



### Lost Link/Mission Procedures

The “Home” location is set before operations begin using Google Maps

. Hom e is where the aircraft returns to and loiters above if communications are lost. The area is set prior to flight at a safe location.



### Lost Communications Procedures

In the event of lost communications the aircraft will return to its designated h ome position and loiter overhead until the operator regains control. If the operator is unable to regain control via telemetry or the

2.4 GHz radio, the aircraft will atte mpt a controlled decent at the home location when the battery is depleted.

- Initial Lo st

- Link: Mission Planner will immediately alarm the operator of a lost

- link status and will continue flying the planned path for up to 10 seconds while trying to reestablish

communications.

- 10 Second Lost

- Link: Mission Planner will continue to alarm the operator and the AgDroneTM

aircraft will begin a circular loiter pattern at the approximate location where the lost

- link occurred for up to 30 seconds while trying to reestablish communications.

- 30 second Lost

- Link: Missi on Planner will continue to alar m the operator and the AgDroneTM

s ystem will automatically initiate RTL mode and loiter above the home location. At this proximity, the AgDroneTM s ystem should be able to reestablish communications.

- No Communications: If los t

- link status continues and the aircraft cannot reestablish connection with the RC transmitter, the AgDroneTM aircraft will remain loitering above the home location until connections are restored or the battery power is depleted.

- Depleted Battery: In the event tha t battery power is depleted mid

- flight, the first component to lose power is the motor. With no propulsion, the AgDron eTM aircraft will rely on the autopilot and control surfaces to gradually descend in the circular (spiral) pattern.

If GPS link is lost the aircr aft is able to reconcile position using dead

- reckoning. However, the Pilot will

be notified of the lost link and can choose to abort the mission.



### Emergency Procedures

The Pilot is able to take fly

- by

- wire control of the aircraft and alter its flight path s hould an emergency arise. The Pilot is also able to demand return to home via the telemetry link.



### § 8: Avionics & Equipment

The AgDroneTM s ystem utilizes an autopilot, GPS, tablet, and ground station software. The AgDroneTM

s ystem does not utilize onboard se nse and avoid or include a transponder.



### § 9: Lights

The AgDroneTM s ystem is not equipped with any lighting.HoneyComb Corporation | 7929 SW Burns Way STE A, Wilsonville, OR 97070



### § 10: Spectrum Analysis Approval

The AgDroneTM s ystem utilizes a Part 15 approved 915MHz telemetry and control link. A backup radio

of 2.4 GHz is also utilized.



### § 11: ATC Communications

The AgDroneTM s ystem does not provide radio communication with ATC. Ground operators may choose to equip themselves with radios to communicate with ATC if required.



### § 12: Electronic Surveillance/Detection Capability

The AgDroneTM s ystem stores imagery onboard via an SD card. No video surveillance capabilities exist

on the AgDroneTM s ystem or provided equipment.



### § 13: Visual Surveillance/Detection Capability

The AgDroneTM s ystem can be visually observed up to 5,280 ft

. horizo ntally and up to 2

, 000 ft

. vertically. Observation is ground based.



### § 14: Aircraft Performance Recording

The AgDroneTM s ystem utilizes onboard flight logging and ground logging. No voice recording is performed.