Developing a Remote Sensor Deployment Testbed

We propose the design and construction of a suite of instrument modules to create a testbed for the deployment of remote sensors. Parameters of the testbed include size, weight and power constraints suitable for small scale aerospace vehicles, anticipating vigorous growth in Unpiloted Aerial Vehicle (UAV) deployment, but the testbed design will allow for deployment on other vehicles including; field towers, tractors, automobiles, and aircraft. The testbed will support a wide range of applications, encouraging remote sensing solutions in new disciplines as well as demonstrating the complete range of engineering knowledge required for successful deployment of remote sensing instruments. Multi-disciplinary education is a primary component of this proposal where small groups of graduate and undergraduate students will develop components with aspects in sensor fabrication, location and position control, wireless communication, vehicle integration, software development, and applications and field testing. We anticipate participation from students in fields including; mechanical and aerospace engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, environmental science, and biological and agriculture