A Low-Cost System for Wind Field Estimation Through Sensor Networks and Aircraft Design

摘要

Multi-hole probes have been used on small aircraft for accurate wind measurements. However, these probes have three main issues associated with them: 1) they are relatively bulky, 2) they are relatively expensive (compared to the cost of the airframe that might carry them) and 3) they need to be placed in the free stream with minimal influence from the airframe. An alternative pressure-measurement-based solution is proposed that uses low-cost pressure sensors located on the airframe at locations most sensitive to the angular orientation, relative to the cruise attitude. The RECUV Eagle Owl UAS airframe is used as a demonstration platform. CFD results are presented to illustrate the process for determining surface locations for a prescribed number of pressure sensors corresponding to the highest sensitivity in estimating angle of attack and side slip. An update is provided on the assembly of a wind tunnel model to be used for calibration prior to test flights.