A GPS-linked Model Helicopter System for Stream Imaging

明尼苏达大学的John P.BondeA与GPS相连的河流成像模型直升机系统生态学家需要一种遥感设备，以介于地面测量和卫星测量之间的分辨率绘制数据。 以前提供这些数据的技术主要集中在固定在高高的梯子，长杆和气球上的相机的摄影。 不幸的是，这些方法不能用于制作地图，因为它们只覆盖地面上的一个点。 使用测量仪器进行地面测绘是一个令人沮丧和耗时的过程，限制了实验复制。为了解决流场成像的映射问题，将研制一套模型直升机流场成像系统。 该系统将使用遥控模型直升机，能够携带10磅的有效载荷，并在非常低的高度飞行。 直升机上的吊舱将包含一台小型计算机、一台双向无线电、一个全球定位系统、一台航空测量激光器和一台红外数码相机。 数码相机将拍摄生态系统，激光将测量直升机离地面的高度，GPS将测量直升机的确切位置，双向无线电将传输命令和数据，计算机将控制操作并记录数据。 回到地面，收集到的信息将被转换成生态系统地图。MHSIS将在湿地和沙漠溪流中进行测试，并与NSF环境生物学部门资助的两个研究项目一起进行。该项目将支持明尼苏达大学杜卢斯（一所本科院校）计算机科学和计算机工程系的一名本科生研究助理。 由于自然资源研究所的应用使命，我们的地理信息系统实验室经常参观的游客从地区中学，县，州，和联邦政府土地使用机构，这个项目将突出在这些图尔斯。

ABSTRACT9986839John P. BondeUniversity of MinnesotaA GPS-linked Model Helicopter System for Stream ImagingEcologists need a remote sensing device to map data at resolutions intermediate between on-the-ground measurements and satellite measurements. Previous techniques to provide this data have focused on photography from cameras affixed to tall ladders, long poles, and balloons. Unfortunately, these methods cannot be used for making maps because they only cover a single spot on the ground. Ground mapping with surveying instruments is a frustrating and time consuming process that limits experimental replication. To solve the mapping problem for stream imaging, a Model Helicopter Stream Imaging System (MHSIS) will be developed. The system will use a remote control model helicopter, capable of carrying a 10 pound payload and flying at very low elevations. A gondola attached to the helicopter will contain a small computer, a 2-way radio, a GPS, an aerial survey laser, and an infrared digital camera. The digital camera will photograph the ecosystem, the laser will measure helicopter height above the ground, the GPS will measure the exact location of the helicopter, the 2-way radio will transmit commands and data, and the computer will control operations and record data. Back on the ground, the information collected will be converted into an ecosystem map. The MHSIS will be tested in wetlands and desert streams, in conjunction with two research projects funded by the NSF Division of Environmental Biology. The project will support an Undergraduate Research Assistant from the Department of Computer Science and Computer Engineering at the University of Minnesota, Duluth, an undergraduate institution. Because of the Natural Resources Research Institute's applied mission, our GIS Laboratory is often toured by visitors from area secondary schools, and county, state, and federal government land use agencies; this project will be highlighted during those tours.