FT Technologies has announced the launch of the first in the company’s new line of lightweight ultrasonic wind sensors. Made from a polycarbonate-based composite and weighing 170g, the FT602 has been designed with drone-friendly features for use on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Powered by FT’s unique Acu-Res® Technology, the sensor uses ultrasound to derive air speed, direction, and temperature. It also features a built-in compass, inclinometer, and barometric pressure sensor.
Although light, the compact size and shape of the FT602 make it physically very strong. Measurements are immune to vibration, shock, and electrical interference, and the sensor is also fully sealed and water-resistant. It can operate at altitudes exceeding 4000m and at temperatures between -20°C and +70°C.
With low power requirements and the ability to read wind speeds up to 75m/s, the FT602 is ideal for UAV flight control systems and environmental monitoring from drones and remotely piloted aircraft.
To provide accurate wind measurements, the wind sensor must be mounted away from the wash of the drone rotors. Every drone is different, so the FT602 has been designed to fit either a pole or a flat surface. It can output data via RS485, RS422, UART, or CANbus. Units of measure can be set to metres per second, kilometres per hour, or knots.
Chris Trodden, Head of Business Development, said, “The FT602 is the first in a new generation of lightweight ultrasonic wind sensors. It is unique in the market in that it combines a weight of only 170g with a wind speed reading range up to 75m/s. The light weight of the FT602 together with the proven FT Acu-Res® technology makes it ideal for use on aerial drones and other applications where weight is critical.
“In addition, FT’s unique and exclusive Acu-Res® technology is the only ultrasonic technology which is immune to vibration and external acoustic noise, both of which are prominent on UAV platforms. The quality of the product is further supported by stress-testing and the wind-tunnel calibration of individual units, before dispatch to customers.”
Like all FT wind sensors, the FT602 has been thoroughly tested in a HALT (Highly Accelerated Life Cycle) chamber. The FT602 was heated to +90°C and cooled to -40°C whilst being vibrated in six dimensions up to 60g. During and after the testing, the test sensors continued to communicate accurately, proving the ability to survive normal service.
