Contribution of Numerical and Experimental Flow Simulations to the Aerodynamic Data Base of the DLR Reusable Flight Experiment ReFEx

Abstract

ReFEx is a Reusable Flight Experiment of the DLR. For the layout of the aerodynamic shape of the vehicle, the identification of a flight trajectory and finally the control systems, extensive data sets are necessary. The focus of this paper lays on the comparison of calculated versus measured aerodynamic coefficients. All simulations were carried out with the DRL TAU Code. The measurements were performed in the trisonic wind tunnel (TMK) of the DLR. One aerodynamic flight control element of ReFEx are the canards. The here presented analysis delivers a good agreement comparing the calculated and measured coefficients, looking at the symmetrical canard deflections. The occurred differences of the asymmetrical canard deflection are discussed in detail, including the numerical as well as experimental uncertainties.