The framework for smart 3D pollution monitoring now available
26/03/2024
In the first half-year of the project, important groundwork was laid for developing a progressive autonomous system featuring a solar glider and a drone. This system, designed to be innovative, portable, and cost-effective, aims to monitor air pollutants in cities, gathering valuable data to inform evidence-based policies and inspire behavior changes to lessen the environmental impact of human activities.
Working together, project partners clarified the concept and its workings. RIT Croatia and Eduforma pinpointed monitoring areas and conducted tests to gather data for validation purposes. They carefully selected and calibrated a suite of sensors for measuring air pollutants. During this testing phase, they focused on ensuring smooth data acquisition and communication between the drones and the on-ground system.
These efforts were crucial in defining the goals and scope of the measurement activities and identifying the requirements for effective testing. Furthermore, they allowed project partners to theoretically validate the framework through simulations, ensuring its feasibility and functionality.
In the latest report available in the Library section, project partners unveil the capabilities of the glider and drone system. The solar-powered glider, a standout feature, operates without recharging for up to 24 hours, making it a zero-impact marvel. Both the glider and the drone have been meticulously engineered to accommodate sensor payloads, enhancing their functionality.
Here are the key highlights:
- Concept Validation: Extensive testing has validated the solar glider's alignment with project goals, particularly in terms of data gathering and sensor integration.
- Collaborative Design: A comprehensive approach was taken, drawing on diverse expertise to determine the system's energy needs and payload capacities.
- Theoretical Validation: Through rigorous simulations, the concept underwent stress-testing to ensure it meets air quality monitoring objectives, identifying areas for potential improvement.
- Component Testing: Thorough testing was conducted on both the solar glider and drone components to confirm their functionality and performance.
Additionally, both the glider and the drone can be outfitted with an array of sensors tailored for various purposes, making it extremely adptable and transferable. Specifically, for air quality monitoring, specific sensors were tested alongside GPS units, guaranteeing precise data collection. If certain thresholds are exceeded, the drone is deployed for closer inspection, ensuring comprehensive monitoring.
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