The Low-Level Wind Shear Alert System (LLWSAS)

Abstract

The results of the Low-Level Wind Shear Alert System (LLWSAS) field test and evaluation are reported. The system is a computer controlled anemometer mesonetwork used to detect near-surface wind discontinuities associated with strong thunderstorms and cold fronts -- those that are potentially hazardous to low-flying aircraft. The test and evaluation was conducted at seven major airports in the United States. This report discusses the principal meteorological events that will trigger alarms, the system hardware and software, and characteristics of the system that are unique to each airport. Heavy emphasis is placed on the proper siting of anemometry which was found to be the most important factor influencing high quality system performance. The siting criteria enumerated should serve as a model for future installations. Deviations from the model will severely impact system performance. The origin and justification for the vector difference threshold is discussed as well as LLWSAS by-products: wind gust determination and special displays for Terminal Radar Approach Control Facility (TRACON) rooms.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 01, 1980
Accession Number
ADA087098

Entities

People

  • R. C. Goff

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics
  • Materials and Manufacturing Processes
  • Sensors

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aircrafts
  • Aviation Accidents
  • Circuit Boards
  • Computer Programs
  • Computers
  • Data Analysis
  • Detection
  • Detectors
  • Digital Data
  • Measurement
  • Meteorological Phenomena
  • Printed Circuits
  • Test And Evaluation
  • Transportation
  • Uninterruptible Power Supplies
  • United States
  • Warning Systems

Fields of Study

  • Environmental science

Readers

  • Atmospheric Science/Meteorology
  • Aviation Safety and Air Traffic Management
  • Fluid Mechanics and Fluid Dynamics.