Investigating Flow Characteristics and Particle Sampling in Drone Aerodynamics: A CFD Simulation Study

SREEKESH KOOKKAL, Suresh Dhaniyala, Clarkson University

     Abstract Number: 563
     Working Group: Instrumentation and Methods

Abstract
Air atmospheric sampling allows for the measurement of various pollutants and contaminants present in the atmosphere, including particulate matter, gases, volatile organic compounds, and other harmful substances. Drones equipped with air quality sensors and sampling capabilities can be deployed to collect air samples, capture air quality data at different altitudes and locations, and provide valuable insights into spatial variations and localized pollution hotspots. The use of drones for air sampling presents several challenges that needs to be addressed to ensure accurate and reliable data collection. Determining the optimal flight parameters, including altitude, speed, and flight patterns, is crucial for effective air sampling.

The positioning of sensors is a critical factor in ensuring accurate sample collection during drone-based air sampling, as the drone is in constant motion and its wings rotate at high speeds near the collection spot and sensors. The understanding and consideration of the aerodynamic flow around the drone plays a crucial role in optimizing the data collection process, minimizing interference from the drone's movement, and maximizing the reliability and precision of the collected air samples. The objective of this study is to numerically investigate the aerodynamic flow characteristics around a hexacopter drone under varying test conditions such as drone velocity and blade rotation speeds. We will detail our modeling approach, the calculated performance characteristics as a function of operating conditions, and the wind-tunnel experimental validation in our presentation.