Due to the complex terrain of mountainous rivers and hazardous natural channels in a municipal region, traditional hydrological flow measurement methods struggle to achieve accurate and efficient velocity monitoring. To enhance the precision and efficiency of flow monitoring in these challenging environments, the project introduced drone-mounted radar flow measurement technology. Leveraging advanced UAV platforms and radar flowmeters, the initiative enables remote, non-contact velocity measurements for mountainous rivers, providing critical data for river management, flood warning systems, and water resource planning. Additionally, the project validates the feasibility and reliability of drone-based radar flow measurement under extreme topographic conditions.
ShenZhen Huaju Scientific Instruments Radar Flowmeters and Water Level Meters
To meet the stringent requirements for device size, weight, and accuracy on UAV platforms—ensuring stable hovering and monitoring in complex, windy environments—Huaju Scientific Instruments Co., Ltd. developed radar flowmeters and water level gauges with the following features:
Broad monitoring range: Ideal for long-distance measurements.
Compact, lightweight, and low-power design: Optimized for UAV integration.
Robust performance: IP68 waterproof rating, wind and vibration resistance, and reverse-connection/lightning protection circuits for field durability.
Technical Highlights of the Radar Flowmeter
The Huaju Scientific radar flowmeter employs a K-band planar microstrip array antenna for concentrated energy transmission and integrates advanced functionalities:
Vertical angle compensation
Flow velocity filtering algorithms
Signal strength detection
RS485/RS232 and wireless communication
This design ensures accurate surface flow velocity measurements unaffected by water turbidity or lighting conditions. Its ultra-low power consumption and specialized antenna engineering minimize energy demands, enabling extended monitoring sessions. 
Project Outcomes
Through this initiative, the team successfully acquired flow velocity data for mountainous rivers and validated the reliability of drone-based radar flow measurement in complex terrains. Compared to traditional methods, the technology offers:
Higher accuracy and efficiency
Remote, real-time, non-contact operation
Reduced risks and labor intensity for field personnel
The project underscores the transformative potential of integrating UAV platforms with cutting-edge radar technology for hydrological monitoring, setting a benchmark for future applications in similarly challenging environments.
