About the project
Local weather information for hang gliding and paragliding, presented in a simple and easy-to-read way.
The name Bakvind is a small joke. Pilots generally do not want tailwind, and the whole project is about making it easier to see when the wind is actually suitable.
The system is built for flying sites where internet coverage is not always available where the measurements should be made. It combines local sensing, wireless transport, and a website that gives a simple live overview.
- Weather sensor – WS90 measures wind, temperature, pressure, rain, and other important weather values at the site. Both variants have solar power with battery backup. Shelly WS90 sends over Bluetooth to a nearby node. Ecowitt WS90 sends to a GW2000 WiFi gateway, does not need an extra node, and has about 100 meters of range. The GW2000 requires power and WiFi.
- Node forwards measurements over LoRa with low power consumption.
- Repeater can be used where the terrain needs extra range.
- Gateway receives the data and uploads it to the website through the web API.
- Website shows simple and updated pages for each flying site.
Why LoRa?
LoRa provides long range and low power use, which makes it a good fit in terrain where power and network access are limited. Together with a WiFi gateway, it avoids the need for SIM cards and subscriptions in every unit.
Made for flying
The system is especially aimed at the needs of hang glider and paraglider pilots.
- Wind sectors show which wind directions suit a specific flying site.
- Live wind data gives a quick view of speed, gust, and direction.
- History and trends make it easier to judge how conditions are developing.
- Simple presentation makes it easier to make a quick decision.
Each place has its own page, so you can quickly check the conditions where you want to fly.