Windsock
A windsock is a usually -built from weather resistant nylon fabric and a tapered, open at both ends of the hose, which is suspended rotatably mounted on a mast height of several meters above the ground. It is inflated by the wind and turned so that the smaller end after Lee has. Thus, the windsock indicates the wind direction and approximate wind speed.
Use
Windsocks come in all applications where it matters less on winning accurate data, but on a slightly interpretable, quickly comprehensible display. To avoid accidents, it is crucial, especially in hectic situations to detect the speed and direction of the wind at a glance. Depends on the wind sock limp, no displayable blowing wind. If he stands at attention in the horizontal so there is a strong wind.
Most windsocks are divided into bright red and white rings, so striped color clearly visible. This is not only for better visibility from a distance or from the air, but also allows a rough estimate of the wind strength. A common rule of thumb is that for every bloated ring about five knots of wind strength are counted.
Exact Anemometers are wind direction sensor and anemometer.
Aviation
According to the rules of the International Civil Aviation Organization ICAO wind direction indicator at all aerodromes and heliports shall be provided. There they should be make out clearly from the air and for pilots on the ground and have for the visual flight at night also has a light. A windsock may be used by small-scale air flows ( for example, engines), and air turbulence by buildings or vegetation not be affected. For ease of visibility from the air each windsock should be preferred in white color, surrounded by a circle.
Road
Windsocks are also found in numerous roads and bridges on which side winds can be to serious danger. Here they give drivers the opportunity to have their driving time to the prevailing wind conditions, adjust about a suddenly stronger crosswind on viaducts. Windsocks found in harbors, transfer stations and tank farms and in industry use.