Host: The Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers
Name : [in Japanese]
Date : April 22, 2024 - April 23, 2024
This study examines a method for detecting gas leaks using multiple UAVs within collapsed buildings in disaster areas. We utilized UAVs with gas sensors weighing less than 100g. An experimental environment was constructed to carry out gas detection experiments. Furthermore, we utilized computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software to visualize the airflow around multiple UAVs. The results from both the experiments and numerical simulations demonstrate that the UAVs' propellers can actively agitate the gas, making it possible to detect leaked gas using the gas sensors mounted on the UAVs. This approach offers a promising avenue for rapid and safe detection of hazardous gas leaks in areas difficult for humans or traditional equipment to access, especially in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. The deployment of lightweight UAVs for such critical tasks underscores the potential of UAV technology in enhancing emergency response efforts, providing valuable data that can help mitigate risks and coordinate rescue operations.
