Harmonic oscillatory tests for a fighter aircraft using the Dynamic Plunge--Pitch--Roll model mount at Virginia Tech Stability Wind Tunnel are described. Corresponding data reduction methods are developed on the basis of multirate digital signal processing. Since the model is sting mounted, the frequencies associated with sting vibration are included in balance readings thus a linear filter must be used to extract out the aerodynamic responses. To achieve this, a Finite Impulse Response (FIR) is designed using the Remez exchange algorithm. Based on the reduced data, a state–space model is developed to describe the unsteady aerodynamic characteristics of the aircraft during roll oscillations. For this model, we chose to separate the aircraft into panels and model the local forces and moments. Included in this technique is the introduction of a new state variable, a separation state variable which characterizes the separation for each panel. This new variable is governed by a first order differential equation. Taylor series expansions in terms of the input variables were performed to obtain the aerodynamic coefficients of the model. These derivatives, a form of the stability derivative approach, are not constant but rather quadratic functions of the new state variable. Finally, the concept of the model was expanded to allow for the addition of longitudinal motions. Thus, pitching moments will be identified at the same time as rolling moments. The results show that the goal of modeling coupled longitudinal and lateral–directional characteristics at the same time using the same inputs is feasible. / Master of Science

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. / Ever-increasing demands for accuracy and range in modern warfare have expedited the optimization of projectile design. The crux of projectile design lies in the understanding of its aerodynamic properties early in the design phase. This research first investigated the aerodynamic properties of a standard M549, 155mm projectile. The transonic speed region was the focus of the research as significant aerodynamic variation occurs within this particular region. Aerodynamic data from wind tunnel and range testing was benchmarked against modern aerodynamic prediction programs like ANSYS CFX and Aero-Prediction 09 (AP09). Next, a comparison was made between two types of angle of attack generation methods in ANSYS CFX. The research then focused on controlled tilting of the projectile’s nose to investigate the resulting aerodynamic effects. ANSYS CFX was found to provide better agreement with the experimental data than AP09.

<p>The first force and moment measurements were conducted in the BAM6QT. Three 7-degree half-angle sharp cones were tested, one with base radius of 4.5 in. and two with base radius of 3.5 in. made out of different materials. Models were tested at 0 and 2 degrees angle of attack. Models were tested over a range of burst pressures and Reynolds numbers. Models were fitted onto a strain gauge, 6 component, internal, moment balance. Multiple assemblies were tested that mounted the balance in the BAM6QT. High-speed schlieren video was used to monitor flow conditions and track the movement of the tunnel and model. Three entries were performed in the BAM6QT. The improvement in data quality with each new entry is shown and the startup and running loads from entry 3 are analyzed.</p> <p>Startup loads were measured and are of importance in determining the load range needed to operate in the BAM6QT. Large startup loads up to 40X the running load were identified. Tunnel movement was measured and was used to approximate the inertial loading during startup and the run. The inertial loading was not found to be the cause of the large startup loads. Schlieren video was used to qualitatively review the startup flow. It was found the large startup loads in axial force were plausibly from the high-pressure subsonic flow evacuating the nozzle. For normal force and pitching moment, the startup loads peak at a different time than axial force and appear to be from a shock-shock interaction nearby the model. Trends in startup load with changing model geometry, AoA, and burst pressure were put together to form an empirical estimation for startup loads sharp cones. </p> <p>Running loads were profiled and found to be trending with burst pressure and model geometry similarly to Newtonian flow theory predictions. However, due to the lack of a base pressure measurement, the results are uncorrected for sting effects and differ from Newtonian flow theory by a scalar. A 5.3 Hz oscillation in axial force was identified. The frequency of the oscillation is the same as the frequency of the quasi-steady flow periods caused by the reflection of the expansion fan in the driver tube. Normal force during the running load was found to be measuring positive loads when at 0 degrees angle of attack. Both the axial and normal force phenomena were unexpected and were investigated but both require further research. </p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p> <p><br></p>