Smart Monitoring of Industrial Stack Emissions Using Multirotor Technology

This research focuses on the conceptual design of a novel stack emissions monitoring aerial platform, addressing the significant issue of monitoring industrial stacks to control air pollution. On-site sampling and analysis of tall industrial stacks, particularly in refinery environments, involves significant safety risks, labor-intensive manual processes, and practical limitations that prevent frequent emissions measurements. By employing an aerial robotic system, these risks are eliminated while simultaneously reducing operational costs, though it introduces implementation and integration challenges. To address these constraints, A design process is proposed in five stages: 1. Selection of a suitable sampling and analysis device, 2. Determining the manipulator mechanism, 3. Optimal manipulator design, 4. Optimal aerial platform design, and 5. Identification of subsystems and key components. Design decisions are guided by quantified criteria, ensuring a systematic and objective approach. The conceptual design was subsequently realized as a CAD model. A representative mission scenario was developed and simulated to demonstrate the platform's operational potential in aerial monitoring of industrial stack emissions. The simulation demonstrated a substantial reduction in total monitoring mission time, completing the task for three stacks in under five minutes from takeoff to landing. Finally, the implementation challenges are discussed, paving the way for future solutions.