Date of Award
12-2016
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Aerospace, Physics, and Space Sciences
First Advisor
Brian A. Kish
Second Advisor
Ralph D. Kimberlin
Third Advisor
Stephen K. Cusick
Fourth Advisor
Hamid Hefazi
Abstract
The prototype WingBug was an innovative concept by Straight & Level Technologies to measure airspeed, altitude, temperature, Euler angles, angular rates, and acceleration information. The unit was portable, self-powered, streamed data via WiFi to any tablet or smart phone in the cockpit, and cost less than $1000. It measured 8”x3”x3”, weighed 6 ounces, and used a GoPro mount to attach externally to any aircraft. This thesis covers results from the initial flight test program flown at the Florida Institute of Technology in 2016. The WingBug was flown on a Piper Warrior. Data from the WingBug were compared to “truth” data from the Piper Warrior. Test points were limited to static points (e.g. constant bank-angle turns). An evaluation of the tablet display was also performed. While the display is suitable, the accuracy of the prototype WingBug data needs improvement and is currently not suitable for flight test use.
Recommended Citation
Rhoney, Matthew Knight, "Flight Test Evaluation and Analysis of the WingBug: A Miniature Air Data Computer and Inertial Measurement Unit" (2016). Theses and Dissertations. 493.
https://repository.fit.edu/etd/493