Design of an experimental wind tunnel system for control applications

In this study, a low-cost experimental wind tunnel system for evaluation of control algorithms and utilization in teaching activities is presented. The system is designed inspired from conventional wind tunnels and has a basic design and low cost as can be realized in every laboratory. The design of mechanical part and electronics hardware and development of computer software are described in detail. The objective of the control system is to ensure the rotation speed of fan, which is placed at the end of the pipe, and track a desired trajectory by controlling air pressure in the pipe. Experimental results are also presented to demonstrate the performance of the system