Ship Wake Velocity Mapping Using InstantEye MAV

Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) and their academic partner, West Virginia University (WVU), are pleased to propose a uniquely innovative approach to measuring the three-dimensional air wake velocity field behind ship structures and towers. The velocity data is needed to support the validation of CFD models that will ultimately be used to provide sufficient safety margins for ship aircraft operations under extreme weather and sea-state conditions. PSI will employ its proven Instant Eye micro-air vehicle (MAV) in order to measure the entire 3D air wake velocity field as well as specific air wake flow features, such as downwash behind the stern and concentrated vortical regions stemming from the flow past the blunt-ship structures. The proposed approach will integrate a five-hole pitot probe with appropriate pressure transducers onto the Instant Eye MAV and use it to map the velocity field. Phase I measurements will be conducted behind a moving truck, a stationary truck in a large wind tunnel with existing experimental data and CFD and behind an operational Navy ship. These three measurement campaigns will establish the feasibility of the Instant Eye integrated measurement system and pave the way for the prototype development in Phase II.