Flow tracking with miniaturized drones

Miniaturized drones can be used as mobile sensors to measure air flow velocities. When a drone moves with the surrounding flow, its velocity can approximate the local wind velocity. However, due to aerodynamic drag and inertia, a difference between the drone velocity and the actual flow velocity can occur. This phenomenon, referred to as slip, reduces the accuracy of flow measurements.

The objective of this project is to investigate how aerodynamic adaptations of a miniaturized drone influence its ability to follow the surrounding air flow. Computer vision methods will be used to track the drone motion from camera recordings and estimate its velocity.

Tasks

• Design and test aerodynamic modifications of the drone body
• Analyze drone motion using computer vision–based tracking

Your Profile

• Interest in drones, aerodynamics, or flow measurement
• Basic programming skills (Python or MATLAB)