Wing Bug: A portable, low-cost flight test instrumentation system

The WingBug was an innovative concept by Straight & Level Technologies to measure airspeed, altitude, temperature, Euler angles, angular rates, and acceleration information. The unit was portable, self-powered, streamed data via WiFi to any tablet or smart phone in the cockpit, and cost less than $1000. It measured 8"×3"×3", weighed 6 ounces, and used a GoPro mount to attach externally to any aircraft. This paper covers results from the initial flight test program flown at Florida Institute of Technology in 2016. The WingBug was flown on a Piper Warrior. Data from the WingBug were compared to “truth” data from the Piper Warrior. Test points were limited to static points (e.g. constant bank-angle turns). An evaluation of the tablet display was also performed. Overall, the prototype WingBug shows promising potential as a flight test system or primary flight reference system for home-built aircraft. The recommendations provided can be used by Straight & Level Technologies to further improve their system.