Wind Noise Measurements of Microphones Embedded in the Airfoil of an UAV

Interest in using acoustics as a sensing modality on both stationary and in motion aerial platforms has been increasing in recent years. Embedding microphones in the skin of an airfoil is one option for how acoustic sensors might be employed on a small Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). The analysis of wind noise measurements made by an array of microphones embedded in the airfoil of a small UAV will be presented. Of particular interest in the acoustic measurements was the level and structure of the wind noise as well as correlation lengths as a function of frequency for directions in line and perpendicular to the predominate direction of the flow. The results and analysis of the measurements will be presented. Additionally, implications for acoustic sensing from aerial platforms will be discussed.
See also ADM202976. 2012 Joint Meeting of the Military Sensing Symposia (MSS) held in Washington, DC on October 22-25, 2012.