High-Sensitivity, Miniaturized CO Sensor for Airborne Use on Small UAVs

The team of Makel Engineering, Inc. (MEI), TruWeather Solutions, LLC., and Latitude Engineering, LLC. propose to develop a novel, high sensitivity, fast response, solid state, electrochemical carbon monoxide sensor system for use in small UAVs which is capable of PPB level atmospheric measurements. The sensor is based on a thick film multi-element potentiometric micro sensor approach which has been developed by MEI. Phase I demonstrated a rugged prototype sensor system with a response time under one second and capable of measuring PPB levels of carbon monoxide. In Phase II, the sensor system will be matured into a flight capable CO sensor payload for small UAVs which will include flight packaging, air sampling systems, and control electronics. In Phase II multiple complete units will be fabricated and flight tested.