Problem

Current air data sensors (e.g., pitot-static/vane), are expensive, have moving parts requiring frequent maintenance, and are susceptible to contamination. They are also unable to measure the high frequency fluctuations in airflow (turbulence) that are of concern to the structural health of aircraft.

Approach

AeroTech's thermal anemometer technology is a low-cost solid-state alternative. The sensor was mounted on the University of North Dakota’s Citation II research airplane for flight testing. The aircraft was flown in icing and turbulence conditions.

Results

Sensor was stable and accurate throughout the flight envelope, making high-frequency turbulence measurements.

AeroTech Contributions

Aircraft mounting test fixture design, sensor integration, and flight test data analysis.

Partners

• University of North Dakota