For those who may not know, anemometers are devices that are meant to measure the speed of wind among other variations. The first one was created in the 1400’s and haven’t changed so much in concept since that time. Over the years many other inventors have made their own updated versions that have evolved over time. Some changes have been made down the line such as the use of a mechanical wheel and hemisphere-shaped cups. There are a few different types of anemometers and each work a bit differently, but with the same goals in mind.
Vane Anemometer: This specific one closely resembles that of a windmill. This device can calculate wind speed and direction.
Hot-Wire: This type has often been described in the manner of what the filament inside a lightbulb looks like when it’s turned on. This sort of anemometer can pick up on the flow of the wind and direction. Unfortunately, unlike the more handheld version of this device, it’s fairly fragile.
Laser Doppler: This device uses a laser beam which hits air particles and bounces the information back to the device, giving the user information on things such as the speed of the wind.
Sonic: Originally created in the 50’s, this device that measures the speed of wind is created to withstand the outdoor elements in places such as weather stations. Unfortunately, due to the way this particular device is created, things such as rain can greatly impact the inaccuracy of the results it produces. Two separate kinds of sonic anemometers have been created called the two ultra-sound path and the three ultra-sound path.
Acoustic: A newer version that was created in the 2000’s, this device is ideal for colder weather as the heat it produces keeps it from freezing while in harsher climates.
Ping Pong Ball: Just like the name suggests, this device is literally a ping pong ball attached to a string. With the combination of the wind blowing on the ball the direction in which it angles is how they calculate the speed and other information.
Plate: Consisting of a plate and a wind vein this form has been altered a few times throughout time and revised by different inventors. Unfortunately, it’s only accurate when it comes to weather involving low-wind speeds. Functioning best higher up in the air, they perform best on places such as bridges.
Tube: Just like a few of the former types, this was recreated again and again to better deal with the issues of inaccuracy during times when the wind was stronger.
Pitot tube static: Typically used in measuring the speed of aircrafts. Due to a heated tip, this is best used in cold climates as it will be unable to be covered in ice.
So as you can see there are many brother anemometers in comparison to the newer models that are much more accurate and portable. All of them however, have served an important role throughout history in giving us what we have today.