An analytical pressure-velocity fusion algorithm-empowered flexible sensing patch for flight parameter detection

Flexible sensing array integrated with multiple sensors is an attractive approach for flight parameter detection. However, the poor resolution of flexible sensors and time-consuming neural network processes mitigate their accuracy and adaptability in predicting flight parameters. Here we present an ultra-thin flexible sensing patch with a new configuration, comprising a differential pressure sensor array and a vector flow velocity sensor. The capacitive differential pressure sensor array is fabricated by a multilayer polyimide bonding technique, reaching a resolution of 0.14 Pa. To solve flight parameters with the flexible sensing patch, we develop an analytical pressure-velocity fusion algorithm, enabling fast response and high accuracy in flight parameter detection. The average errors in calculating the angle of attack, angle of sideslip, and airspeed are 0.22°, 0.35°, and 0.73 m s⁻¹, respectively. The high-resolution flexible sensors and novel analytical pressure-velocity fusion algorithm pave the way for flexible sensing patch-based air data sensing techniques.