Wind Measurement and Estimation with Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) Using On-Board Mini Ultrasonic Anemometers

摘要

Accurate and precise measurements of wind are important for understanding atmospheric transport, especially when trying to localize and quantify natural gas emissions from pipeline leaks. This work looks at the applicability of measuring wind speed and direction with mini ultrasonic anemometers on-board small unmanned aerial systems. The 'prop wash effect' from propeller air intake mixing of the wind is quantified through experiments for a multi-rotor platform in a low cost wind tunnel (LCWT). Trisonica and FT742SM sensors are compared through wind tunnel experiments for accuracy confirmation. The validation of measuring wind conditions on-board is compared with accepted estimation techniques for VTOL and fixed wing platforms.