Dynamic Wind Tunnel Testing & Modeling of Nonlinear Unsteady Aerodynamics

The utilization of large amplitude nonlinear motion simulation in the development and analysis of military aircraft configuration flying qualities and flight controls, flight test data analysis, as well as flight test planning and training has advanced concurrently with the advances in computational capabilities and airframe modelling. Unfortunately, user's access to these high level simulations has been constrained by the cost and complexity of their computer platforms, as well as the obscure user interfaces that resulted as these simulation applications evolved through older operating systems. Recent advances in microprocessor design, operating systems, and programming code have enabled current personal computers to operate at speeds capable of supporting advanced man-in-the-loop simulation real time. A Phase I task is proposed to utilize these current technologies, along with the advanced user interfaces they allow, to demonstrate the potential of simulating a complex aircraft and flight cotrol system on a low-cost platform. The availability of such an application would greatly expand the utilization of advanced aircraft modelling and analysis in the civilian and military sectors.