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Formation Flight Testing
Bihrle
Applied Research Inc. has developed unique capabilities for investigating
the aerodynamic effects on aircraft in close formation. Wind-tunnel
experiments were conducted at the Langley Full-Scale Tunnel using special
hardware and computer equipment developed specifically for formation
testing. It was demonstrated that static and dynamic force and moment
data, as well as surface pressure data and wake survey data, can be
acquired and utilized to analyze any model vehicle in close formation
flight. The data acquired is well suited for use in flight vehicle simulation
for development of control laws for automated formation flight and automated
refueling.
Unique to this wind tunnel testing was the simultaneously collection of force and moment data from two separate models positioned differently during each run. Also unique was the dynamic testing conducted to determine the control surface deflections required to trim the trail vehicle
in various formation positions.
