A wind speed profile measurement method based on free bubble tracking in the lower atmosphere

• This paper develops a method for measuring local wind speed profiles.
• The system works remotely by tracking clusters of lighter than air bubbles.
• Performance has been proven by computer simulations and extensive field tests.
• The method allows to monitor the real time behaviour of the Atmospheric Boundary Layer.
• The system is an affordable solution for areas where wind knowledge is critical, e.g. airports.

This paper establishes the basis for the development of an affordable system with the aim of measuring speed profiles in local wind flows by remotely tracking lighter-than-air bubbles. First, the main components and features of the measurement system are explained, as well as their integrated workflow, with special emphasis on the data processing. The capability of the system to estimate the horizontal wind in real time along the ascending path of the conglomerates of bubbles is modelled and verified in simulated scenarios, assessing the impact of different parameters. Later, field test campaigns are carried out in order to test the measurement system in different atmospheric conditions against calibrated ultrasonic anemometers. The results show the feasibility of the whole system that, in certain conditions and applications like those requiring medium accuracy with a restricted budget, could be a reliable and low cost alternative to other remote sensing devices for wind flow profiling.