Precision is not an issue, but cost and simplicity - yes!
This will be an extension module to the environmental portable multi-sensor which I almost finished in prototype.
Question is: is there any low-cost wind sensor (up to 20 USD) that can communicate with the Arduino nano, except the cup/propellers ones?
And another challenge: is anyoane aware about attempts to hack an existing sensor to persuade it to measure wind speed? I am thinking to a pressure one or some based on Bernoulli (Pitot tubes ?).
I've often thought of a wind force meter using a sphere of about, say, 20 cm diameter tensioned between 2 strain gauges, 1 for N/S, 1 for E/W but don't have the machine working tools to pursue it.
I would use three gauges. Saves one sensor, but should also make balancing easier: compare trying to balance a three-legged table vs. a four-legged table on a rough floor, and three sensors is enough to calculate all directions based on the force ratio between them.
That transistor idea is interesting. Trying to get at least a basic understanding of what's going on there but it's not easy.
My anemometer uses a bar magnet turning over a reed switch and driven by cups to catch the air. It registers correctly less than 1 MPH. I count the number of switch closures for 1 second.
@jremington - depends on the brand and type. But the most Ive seen at a reasonable price starts measuring from 2 m/s. Construction constraints at consumer end apply. Marketing is also particularly effective these days.
There is also an accuracy problem at low speeds around the inferior limit.
The only way to make sure about this is to calibrate the anemometer using a meteo certified one. In my case, that is beyond the practical aim.
Think to a practical problem as well: you are in the mountains with a backpack of different instruments, food, water. Carrying a cup anemometer or a costly propeller one is not appealing.
falexandru: @jremington - depends on the brand and type. But the most Ive seen at a reasonable price starts measuring from 2 m/s. Construction constraints at consumer end apply. Marketing is also particularly effective these days.
There is also an accuracy problem at low speeds around the inferior limit.
The only way to make sure about this is to calibrate the anemometer using a meteo certified one. In my case, that is beyond the practical aim.
Think to a practical problem as well: you are in the mountains with a backpack of different instruments, food, water. Carrying a cup anemometer or a costly propeller one is not appealing.
I got mine at a swap meet for 10 US dollars.
In wonder why you even bothered to make the original post, now that you have dismissed all the suggestions as not being practical.
I posted to find out whether there is any wind measurement solution that I am not aware and that can be adopted in the hobby environment. I got at least 2 valuable ideas and suggestions. I do not reject anything, since any opinion is relevant and I just wanted to stress the circumstances for people to understand me better.
outsider:
I've often thought of a wind force meter using a sphere of about, say, 20 cm diameter tensioned between 2 strain gauges, 1 for N/S, 1 for E/W but don't have the machine working tools to pursue it.
Spheres may shed vortices, which might be a problem.