A Low-Cost Method of Airspeed Data Acquisition via Image Processing and Experimental Aerodymanic Load Calculation Using Panel Methods

Smaller general-aviation aircraft now contain composite primary structures that exhibit a time-dependent load memory. A project was undertaken to develop a service-life prediction method to better understand composite use in this market segment. Most general-aviation aircraft do not possess flight data acquisition systems to gather in-service information. As such, this thesis presents the development of a low-cost method to acquire experimental flight data and the subsequent aerodynamic load calculations to obtain a load history for a composite wing spar. Using amateur UAV components, the focus of this work is on the acquisition of airspeed information through image processing of video footage. The preparation of a Diamond Katana for flight tests is presented with the required certification process. The results show that a load history can be obtained in a cost-effective manner. A discussion is included on the feasibility of expanding the data acquisition method to develop a flight data recorder.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Applied Science (M.App.Sc.)

Level thesis:degree_level

Master's

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Engineering, Aerospace

Grantor dc:publisher

Carleton University

Year dc:date.issued

2015

Author dc:creator

• Abraham-Doman, Shazad

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright © 2015 the author(s). Theses may be used for non-commercial research, educational, or related academic purposes only. Such uses include personal study, research, scholarship, and teaching. Theses may only be shared by linking to Carleton University Institutional Repository and no part may be used without proper attribution to the author. No part may be used for commercial purposes directly or indirectly via a for-profit platform; no adaptation or derivative works are permitted without consent from the copyright owner.

Language dc:language.iso

en

DOI

10.22215/etd/2015-10945

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:carleton.scholaris.ca:20.500.14718/32297