DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND TESTING OF AN ACOUSTIC ANEMOMETER.

Abstract : This report covers the development and testing of an acoustic anemometer which provides an instantaneous visual display of wind speed. The anemometer system consists of three units: an acoustic transducer array consisting of three orthogonally mounted transducer-pairs which sense the wind velocity components, a transmit unit which analyzes the information provided by the array, and a display unit offering a visual presentation of the electrical data developed at the transmitter unit. The system is intended to provide a measurement range of 0 to 150 knots, with a resolution of 1 knot. The overall accuracy for the system is plus or minus 3% of the reading, plus or minus one digit. An extensive laboratory and field test program, designed to verify the suitability of the system for use in extreme climates was conducted, and the results of these tests are presented. The system described is intended for operational use at missile sites and ranges. (Author)