Calibration and flight test of a 3D printed 5-hole probe for high-dynamic wind measurements for UAV

Abstract

This paper focuses on the integration and characterization of a 3D printed 5-hole probe for high-dynamic wind measurements for UAV. The probe is calibrated by means of a free jet wind tunnel and validated by dynamic angle of attack variations during an unmanned test flight. The angle of attack and sideslip angle measurements show an RMS error of 24 mrad with a peak-to-peak noise of 3mrad in the range of −20° to 20°. The airspeed measurement shows an RMS error of 0.19ms−1 with a peak-to-peak noise of 0.09ms−1 and a range up to 28ms−1. Therefore, the probe fulfills the requirements for the planned purpose of active turbulence suppression for fixed-wing UAV. Furthermore, the probe appears also suitable for a variety of other applications.