Wind Tunnel Tests for Validation of Control Algorithms at High Angles of Attack Using Autonomous Aircraft Model Mounted in 3DOF Gimbals

摘要

This paper presents a technique of studying the critical flight regimes using autonomous aircraft model mounted in 3DOF gimbals in a wind tunnel. The dynamically scaled aircraft model with representative control surfaces equipped with high- accuracy encoders, inertial measurement unit and on-board computer is used to study the 3DOF dynamics at high angles of attack. Similarity of the high-angles-of-attack dynamics of the wind tunnel model and the free-flying model is demonstrated. The robust control and the standard Model Reference Adaptive Control techniques are used to design controllers suppressing the self-induced large-amplitude lateral/directional oscillations (wing rock) and stalling. The wing rock and stalling prevention is validated using experimental studies with the autonomous model in 3DOF gimbals.