Aerodynamic Flight Test Results for the Adaptive Compliant Trailing Edge

Abstract

The aerodynamic effects of compliant flaps installed onto a modified Gulfstream III airplane were investigated. Analyses were performed prior to flight to predict the aerodynamic effects of the flap installation. Flight tests were conducted to gather both structural and aerodynamic data. The airplane was instrumented to collect vehicle aerodynamic data and wing pressure data. A leading-edge stagnation detection system was also installed. The data from these flights were analyzed and compared with predictions. The predictive tools compared well with flight data for small flap deflections, but differences between predictions and flight estimates were greater at larger deflections. This paper describes the methods used to examine the aerodynamics data from the flight tests and provides a discussion of the flight-test results in the areas of vehicle aerodynamics, wing sectional pressure coefficient profiles, and air data.

Adaptive Structures and Biomimetic Robots – A Perspective

“…Within these boundaries, results are yet incredibly interesting. Projects like the already cited SARISTU in Europe, [2,5,6], or Adaptive Compliant Trailing Edge in USA, [7], proposed full-size wings integrated with multiple actuation systems and distributed sensor networks. In detail, SARISTU presented a 5.5 m span wing equipped with an adaptive leading edge (the fore part of the wing), an adaptive trailing edge (the aft part) and a winglet (the wing tip), capable of giving the basic structure incredible shape variations.…”

Adaptive Structures, Robotics and Bio medics: A Perspective

“…Within these boundaries, results are yet incredibly interesting. Projects like SARISTU in Europe [2], or Adaptive Compliant Trailing Edge in USA [4], proposed full-size wing integrated with multiple actuation systems and distributed sensor networks. In detail, SARISTU presented a 5.5m span wing equipped with an adaptive leading edge (the fore part of the wing), an adaptive trailing edge (the aft part) and a winglet (the wing tip), capable to give the basic structure incredible shape variations.…”

Recent developments in the aeroelasticity of morphing aircraft

“…Morphing aircraft can offer improvements in the flight performance and reductions in weight, noise, and emissions [35][36][37][38]. They may also improve the safety of flight through enhancement of gust alleviation capabilities and stall characteristics [39].…”