What is it about?

Measurements in the atmosphere have been done with Doppler lidars, satellites, airplanes and met towers. We have shown a new approach of sensor placement on a DJI Matrice 100 to collect our first measurements taking in count the noise generated by the propeller. For this, previous studies have been done using Schlieren imaging to visualize the downwash and the tip vortices generated by the propeller. In addition, a simulation of the experiments has been done in Unity3D, where the drone has been configured to fly around plumes that could be generated by wildfires.

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Why is it important?

By implementing different sensors on drones, the studies of different environments that were not accessible before is now possible. We have found that by placing sensors on the drone, taking in count the noise and disturbances of the propeller, we can take measurements of the atmosphere in real-time, as well as deploying the system in extreme environments. One of the best examples would be in wildfires, where having drones could reduce the risk for humans, while being able to predict where the fire is going to spread. In addition, these technologies could be used in Mars and the Moon, by modifying the propulsion method of the drone, and help to have a more in-depth exploration of these new worlds.

Perspectives

It was very exciting working on this project as a start for my Master's. It was my first AIAA AVIATION proceeding, and I enjoyed writing it. With the findings I had in the paper, I was able to develop new experiments and implement new sensors to get more accurate measurements. It was the push I needed to immerse myself into the fluids and robotics area. I hope that you enjoy this article as much as I enjoyed writing and working on it.

Daniel Brun

Read the Original

This page is a summary of: Use of Quadcopter UAV Multirotor for ABL Wind and Temperature Measurements, July 2021, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA),
DOI: 10.2514/6.2021-2941.
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