Key words
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unmanned aerial systems; environmental observations; in-situ measurements; atmospheric boundary-layer research; process studies; sensor technology and integration; UAS flight mechanics and control
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Research programs
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COST-Action ES0802 - Unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in atmospheric research
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Short description
(English)
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The aim of this project within the scope of the COST Action ES0802 is to provide a cost-effective and very specific UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) for Atmospheric Boundary Layer (ABL) Research. That includes short turnaround cycle times on ground, easy to handle components, a design which is optimised for carrying sensors, and the ability to fit the whole system in a box. UMARS should be as easy to operate as the small systems that already exist, but carry more payload (including suitable chemical sensors) than those. This automatically implies a much wider scope than just meteorological research. However in a first instance this will be the main focus supported by an international joint observation campaign.
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Further information
(English)
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Full name of research-institution/enterprise: Zürcher Hochschule für Angewandte Wissenschaften ZHAW School of Engineering
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Partners and International Organizations
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BE, CH, CY, DE, DK, ES, FI, FR, IE, IL, IS, IT, NO, PL, PT, UK
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Abstract
(English)
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This project within the scope of the COST Action ES0802 intended to provide a cost-effective specific UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) for atmospheric research and earth observation. There are many small UAS in use worldwide, and even more larger systems (RPAS: Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems). UMARS was planned to fill this gap: Not that limited like the small UAS that can only measure a few parameters with limited accuracy, however, still limited in size to allow operation by a skilled research group, with efforts comparable for launching a tethered balloon system. The sensor mass and volume should be in the order of 5 to 10 kg in 30 litres. In the first phase of the project, the Demonstrator UMARS-1 was tested very successfully in a joint field-campaign with ETHZ, already equipped with a newly developed sensor for temperature, humidity and 3-d-wind at high temporal resolution and high accuracy, which was called 'Z_probe'. UMARS 2 was then designed and built by using the lessons learned from UMARS-1. The key improvements are: 40 l volume for scientific equipement, enhanced electrical endurance, and a redundant autopilot system with the option to trigger a parachute rescue system. Also the handling was improved by a better separation of the aircraft systems and the sensor compartement. Mounting and unmounting is without loose parts or special tools.
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References in databases
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Swiss Database: COST-DB of the State Secretariat for Education and Research Hallwylstrasse 4 CH-3003 Berne, Switzerland Tel. +41 31 322 74 82 Swiss Project-Number: C10.0149
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