This Summer's Campaign and More!

It has been a while since the last post for our team here, but that doesn't mean it hasn't been a busy time in the off-season. Quite the contrary, considering that maintenance and modifications have been made to the aircraft to ensure better flight characteristics and reliability. Of course during last year's campaign in Indiana the team had an overwhelming success, but as many know, there is always room for improvement, and the team did just that.

Likewise, this past summer's campaign was worthwhile in the collection of wind data used in conjunction with Indiana University researchers. During the campaign, the team didn't go without setbacks, but this is an expected scenario when considering this aircraft as an experimental platform. Their primary issue on the aircraft itself was the ignition. Although flight would easily have been possible, the team decided to make a full repair by replacing the ignition unit entirely. As with any experimental aircraft, safety is the utmost priority, for both the team, surroundings, and the aircraft as well.

This summer's campaign took place in and around the Cleveland area at three different locations: the Port of Cleveland, Griffing Sandusky Genreral Aviation Airport, and finally at the Geauga Model Airplane Club (AMA) field in Burton. However, the Golden Eagle was not flown at the port due to safety concerns and airspace regulations. Regardless, the team managed to collect data at ground level while traversing their designated (empty) parking lot.

The AMA field was used foremost to prepare the aircraft for airworthiness, but wind data was collected as well. The only issues that were reported with the aircraft were concerning trims on the controls, but otherwise was in suitable condition for flight at the final location nearest to the shore of Lake Erie at the general aviation airport.

The Griffing Sandusky General Aviation Airport was exceptionally ideal for the Golden Eagle. Although general aircraft were actively using the facilities, safe flying operations were maintained. Constant contact was kept between the team and the aircraft in the airspace. At the airport were two tarmac runways and two grass runways with the latter of more than adequate size for the Golden Eagle. The team managed two successful thirty-minute data acquisition flights. Wind speeds reached 5-15 MPH with gusts slightly higher. Although during the Indiana campaign those wind speeds were subject to postpone flights, our returning professional pilot, Mike Tranchitella, safely piloted through these conditions. In doing so, it was recognized that the UAV still performs properly and safely at higher wind speeds, making it apparent that the aircraft is even better suited for this type of research.

Photo Credit: Len Tompos

Photo Credit: Len Tompos

All in all, this campaign was successful in providing the researchers with appropriate wind data to aid the in the feasibility of offshore wind turbine sites on Lake Erie. As mentioned before, the team had to overcome some adversity in the form of mechanical issues, but during the span of the campaign period, all issues were appropriately addressed. The team itself built upon safer regulations when supporting the program, with an initiative to continually improve the distinct roles of each member.

At the current time back at the university, a second iteration UAV is in the process of being built! And in the next month or so the team is planning a campaign, but those details will be released at a later date, so continue checking back often for updates.

Also, if you have any questions feel free to send an email to the team via the email provided on the "About the Team" page or leave a comment below.   

Photo Credit: Len Tompos