1. Product Overview
The IndusKey INK446 Ultrasonic Wind Direction and Speed Sensor represents a significant upgrade over traditional cup/vane or propeller-based wind sensors. It is built on proven ultrasonic technology, making it suitable for operation in both land and marine environments. The sensor is lightweight yet features a robust, high-strength structure with a corrosion-resistant outer surface. It is designed as a true "install and forget" device, requiring no field calibration or maintenance. The INK446 provides both digital and analog outputs for versatile integration into various monitoring systems.
2. Sensing Technology & Self-Cleaning System
Sensing Technology:
The INK446 utilizes ultrasonic technology to measure wind speed and direction. This method works by transmitting ultrasonic pulses between multiple transducers and measuring the time it takes for the sound to travel. The wind affects the speed of sound, and by comparing the time of flight in different directions, the sensor can accurately calculate both wind speed and direction. A key advantage of this technology is that it has no moving parts, leading to increased reliability and a longer lifespan compared to mechanical sensors.
Robust & Low-Maintenance Design:
While a specific self-cleaning system is not detailed, the INK446 is engineered for minimal maintenance and reliable operation in harsh conditions. It is designed for all-weather operation and remains unaffected by rain, ice, snow, or frost. This inherent resistance to environmental elements means that the sensor's performance is not compromised by build-up on its surfaces, effectively eliminating a common maintenance issue with traditional sensors. The robust structure and strong corrosion resistance further ensure that no damage occurs during installation or use, solidifying its "install and forget" design philosophy.
3. Key Features & Competitive Advantages
- No Start-up Wind Speed Limit: Unlike mechanical sensors that require a minimum wind speed to start moving, the ultrasonic technology allows the INK446 to measure micro-winds, making it suitable for indoor and very low wind speed applications.
- True 360° Operation with No Dead Zone: The sensor provides full 360° wind direction coverage without any blind spots, ensuring comprehensive data capture.
- Low Power & No Calibration Required: The sensor operates on low power and requires no on-site calibration, simplifying installation and reducing operational costs over its lifetime.
- All-Weather Reliability: Its operation is unaffected by rain, ice, snow, or frost, ensuring accurate readings in the most challenging weather conditions.
- Flexible and Convenient: The lightweight design allows for easy installation and removal. It provides simultaneous digital and analog outputs, offering flexibility for integration with different data acquisition systems.
4. Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Value |
| Wind Speed Range |
0 – 60 m/s |
| Wind Speed Accuracy |
±0.2 m/s |
| Wind Speed Resolution |
0.1 m/s |
| Wind Direction Range |
0 – 360° |
| Wind Direction Accuracy |
±2° |
| Wind Direction Resolution |
1° |
| Dimensions (WxH) |
400 x 285 mm |
| Weight |
1.5 kg |
| Protection Class |
IP65 |
| Operating Temperature |
-40 °C – +70 °C |
| Operating Humidity |
5 %RH – 100 %RH |
| Power Supply |
DC 24 V, 60 mA (working); DC 24 V, 5 A (heater) |
| Digital Signal |
RS485 / RS232 |
| Analog Signal |
4 – 20 mA |
| Output Frequency |
15 times/s |
5. Applications
- Meteorological Stations: It serves as a core component for professional weather monitoring networks, providing accurate wind data for forecasting and climate research.
- Marine and Offshore Platforms: Due to its corrosion-resistant properties and ability to withstand harsh marine environments, it is ideal for use on ships, buoys, and offshore oil/gas platforms.
- Aviation and Airports: The sensor can be used for wind monitoring at airports to ensure safe takeoffs and landings.
- Renewable Energy (Wind Farms): It is used for site assessment and ongoing performance monitoring of wind turbines.
- Building and Civil Engineering: The sensor is used to assess wind loads on structures such as bridges, skyscrapers, and stadiums.
- Environmental Monitoring: It is deployed in pollution monitoring networks and for studying air dispersion patterns.
- HVAC and Indoor Climate Control: Its ability to measure micro-winds makes it suitable for optimizing ventilation systems in buildings.
