Force-Metric Free-Rotating Wire Suspension Mount for Wind Tunnel VFT

Physical Sciences Inc. proposes to construct, test, and deliver a wire suspension system to support a model in a wind tunnel while permitting free rotation about three axes. A three-component balance integrated into the mount will measure loads on themodel. The device will enable Virtual Flight Tests, providing a means of identifying, diagnosing, and solving, control and navigation system problems without the risk and expense of flight testing. The system proposed here will be designed for use in the16T tunnel at AEDC. It will be designed to support and measure side and normal forces up to 9000 lb., and an axial force of 900 lb. The support structure will be arranged to minimize aerodynamic interference. An active hydraulic damping system willeliminate structural vibration. Laboratory tests will include load capacity verification, elasto-dynamic characteristics, active damping evaluation, and force calibration. The system will be installed in the Langley Full Scale Tunnel, operated by OldDominion University. A missile model similar to the BOA will be used as the test article. The wind tunnel test will demonstrate function of the proposed system at low speeds (<110 ft/s) and will include controlled maneuvering and dynamic forcemeasurement.