A GPS-linked Model Helicopter System for Stream Imaging

约翰·P·邦德明尼苏达大学用于水流成像的GPS连接模型直升机系统生态学家需要一种遥感设备来绘制介于地面测量和卫星测量之间的分辨率的数据。以前提供这些数据的技术主要是从安装在高梯、长杆和气球上的相机拍摄的。不幸的是，这些方法不能用于绘制地图，因为它们只覆盖了地面上的一个地点。使用测量仪器绘制地面地图是一个令人沮丧和耗时的过程，限制了实验复制。为了解决流成像的映射问题，将开发一个模型直升机流成像系统(MHSIS)。该系统将使用遥控模型直升机，能够携带10磅的有效载荷，并在非常低的海拔飞行。安装在直升机上的吊篮将包括一台小型计算机、一台双向无线电、一台GPS、一台航测激光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，收集的信息将被转换成生态系统地图。MHSIS将与NSF环境生物学部门资助的两个研究项目一起在湿地和沙漠溪流中进行测试。该项目将支持明尼苏达大学德卢斯分校计算机科学和计算机工程系的一名本科生研究助理。明尼苏达大学是一所本科院校。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有来自地区中学以及县、州和联邦政府土地使用机构的参观者参观；在这些参观过程中，这个项目将得到重点关注。

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.