Automated Calculation of Aerodynamic Coefficients for sUAV Using Ardupilot Logging Data and Inexpensive Sensors

Christian Rieger; Paula Zimmermann; Mirko Hornung

doi:10.4050/F-0080-2024-1046

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Automated Calculation of Aerodynamic Coefficients for sUAV Using Ardupilot Logging Data and Inexpensive Sensors

Christian Rieger, Paula Zimmermann, Mirko Hornung, Technical University Munich

May 7, 2024

https://doi.org/10.4050/F-0080-2024-1046

Abstract:
Manual analysis of the aerodynamic behavior of small unmanned aircraft is a lengthy and repetitive task. This paper shows the current state of an automated flight analysis tool that calculates the aerodynamic coefficients of small unmanned aerial vehicles. It covers the tool's workflow, shows the current quality of the data processing, and lessons learned. It compares the results of different aircraft types, including standard electric motor and glider aircraft, and shows specifically designed and tested flight patterns. The results of the tool are compared to manually computed data from the glider using a low-wind flight before sunrise. Finally, the impact of thermals on the measured data is presented. An outlook will show the remaining limitations and possible future additions to the tool.