Predictive Flight Models
Utilizing unique in-house engineering tools and flight modeling expertise, Bihrle is capable of developing detailed simulation flight models without obtaining aerodynamic data from wind tunnel or flight tests. Such models have a variety of applications from conceptual design
evaluation to training to entertainment.
A flight model was needed in order to offer a full-cockpit simulator of the Wright Flyer Model B for EAA's "Countdown to Kittyhawk Celebration" at AirVenture 2001. Because there is very little technical information is available for the Model B, a bit of "reverse engineering" was
accomplished using the D-Six compatible SimGen software. SimGen's geometry modeler tool enabled Bihrle engineers to use photographs and scale drawings of the Wright Model B to create an external geometry model. The software's integrated computational aerodynamics tools were then used to
calculate aircraft forces and moments. Because the software auto-executes its computational aerodynamic code to generate a prescribed D-Six compatible database structure, it is possible to go from sketches to a flying simulation of the vehicle in a matter of a few hours.
The methods and tools used on the Model B are also applicable to a variety of fixed-wing aircraft from general aviation aircraft to military fighters to more exotic unmanned vehicles. Bihrle has demonstrated the ability to fuse new aerodynamic data, generated from predictive methods,
into an existing D-Six simulation model. Using three-view drawings, an F-16 was modeled and an aerodynamics database was auto-generated using SimGen. This data was placed into an existing simulation model that was complete with a compatible thrust model and flight control system. This
enabled the rapid evaluation of vehicle modifications and allows core simulation code to be reused in multiple projects.
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