The impacts of the wind on GPS of quadrotors

Abstract

Purpose

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is crucial for determining the positions of quadrotors, enabling safe flight and maintaining stability against environmental conditions. This study aims to investigate the effect of wind on the GPS of quadrotors experimentally.

Design/methodology/approach

This experimental study was conducted using an F450 frame, 980 kV motors and a Pixhawk flight controller to manage the quadrotor’s flight. To investigate the effects of wind on the quadrotor’s GPS during flight, a Pixhawk 4 Holybro flight controller was used. The experimental tests were performed on a predetermined route at different wind speeds.

Findings

Analysis of the data obtained from the flight tests showed that GPS signals were more affected as the wind speed increased. The percentage of GPS jamming levels reached 18% at high wind speeds.

Practical implications

Positioning services will be even more critical for quadrotors, which are expected to be used more frequently in public areas. This study is expected to be a reference for GPS-related research.

Originality/value

Winds pose a significant threat to the safe flight of quadrotors in many ways. This study experimentally investigates the effects of wind on the GPSs of quadrotors and to what extent it affects them at different wind speeds under real weather conditions. The obtained data shows that wind has a significant impact on GPS jamming.

Citation

Ercan, H. and Ulucan, H. (2023), "The impacts of the wind on GPS of quadrotors", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 95 No. 8, pp. 1295-1302. https://doi.org/10.1108/AEAT-03-2023-0086