Flight Loads Analysis and Turbulence Measurements on an Atmospheric Research Aircraft

Abstract

The research aircraft DLR HALO (High Altitude and Long Range Research Aircraft) is able to carry external stores. These stores are mounted at the wing hardpoints and can house several measurement instruments for atmospheric research. However, to ensure the safety and structural integrity of the aircraft and the stores, modifications on the aircraft have to be investigated with numerical analyses and experimental data. The DLR project iLOADS aims at the development of an internal DLR loads process, among others also to be able to support certification capabilities for the DLR aircraft fleet. To assist the DLR HALO operations, a simulation model of the aircraft was set up and loads analyses have been carried out in the Institute of Aeroelasticity at DLR Göttingen. For the experimental part, a flight test campaign with DLR HALO has been performed in April 2016, totaling 14 flying hours. In the test flights strain data of wing external stores, acceleration data of installed sensors and turbulence data were collected. First analyses have been carried out and the findings can be utilized in the further development of the DLR loads process.