Comparing aerial platforms for the amazon application scenarios

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive comparison of most known aerial platforms: fixed-wings, multirotor, and airships. The goal is to evaluate each platform´s characteristics with the operational conditions of the Amazon forest. Among the most challenging aspects, one may cite the large area (almost all Europe fits in its territory), lack of access by land, a typical of twelve meters displacement annual flood cycle, hot and humid environment. These conditions impose a set of design requirements that no current aerial platform can meet. Instead of declaring a winner, the intention is to define the limits of each platform, showing their commentary aspect, and list recommendation of how and where to apply them. The analysis is restricted to small to medium equipment for civil applications. Moreover, the paper reflects about the combination of aerial vehicles with wireless sensor networks to do risk management of large areas of forest. The purpose is to help users such as environmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, and other civil organization to benefit from these new technologies, but cannot afford to acquire an unmanned aerial system form a private or military company.