Tim Ward wrote:

Yes, all the units I came across seemed to be high end or developmental,
and rather large to stick into a glider. A careful search might have
better luck.


The sensor I posted a link to was small enough to be mounted on a rifle as a
sight.
http://www.navysbir.brtrc.com/succes...navsea_p3.html

I thought it was something telescope sized that sat next to the
rifleman.I can see now it's about the size of a flashlite - much smaller
than the airspeed units I saw.

That would seem to be a feasible size, weight and ruggedness for a glider
I've sent an email with some questions I had, but haven't yet received an
answer.

Let us know what they write.


Some of the applications they mention on that website -- Automotive,
Collision Avoidance,
Cruise Control, Parking Aid, would require the cost to be fairly reasonable
(though the volume would be a lot more than sailplanes would ever give
them.)

A mitigating factor for cost is gliders already have a pretty good
forward airmass speed sensor - the ASI - so perhaps only a downward
aimed laser sensor good for measuring 100 to 500 feet per minute at 2%
accuracy would be satisfactory.


If the laser and optics can be made to "see" through the canopy, pointing it
upward might make for an easier install. I've seen compasses mounted on top
of the panel.

Maybe a mirror adapter to peek out the side window. If the beam is small
enough, mounting it in the baggage compartment and pointing up through a
1/2" hole in the turtledeck wouldn't bother me.

--
Change "netto" to "net" to email me directly

Eric Greenwell
Washington State
USA