NEXTTRIP Interactional aerodynamic assessment of an advanced tilt rotor configuration

Abstract

This paper reports on the goals accomplished by the NEXTTRIP Consortium in response to the Topic JTICS2-2017-CFP06-FRC-01-15 titled Interactional Aerodynamic Assessment of Advanced Tilt Rotor Configuration. The aim of the project was to assess different empennage configurations for the Next Generation Civil Tilt Rotor, NGCTR, by a large scale wind tunnel experiment, share knowledge and skills across the European partners and to provide guidance to the Integrated Technology Demonstrator (ITD) leaders through CFD-optimised and cost-effective solutions. The investigation, test and evaluation of a new empennage configuration for the NGCTR Technology Demonstrator were conducted in the DNW 9.5-by-9.5 m large low speed facility (LLF) in Marknesse, the Netherlands. Although the wind tunnel campaign was mainly focused to determine the stability and control characteristic of the powered, 1/5th scale model of the NGCTR, tests were also conducted to study the following effects of varying the basic configuration: effect of a V-tail and T-tail empennage, effect of elevator trim, effect of lateral-directional control, effect of power, interactional effect of rotor on/rotor off and effect of nacelle angle. Additional and innovative aspect of the experimental campaign was the application of the Particle Image Velocimetry based on Helium Filled Soap Bubbles, or HFSB, on large scale by using a seeding rake on 3-by-3 meters and up to 60 m/s. The test results were used in parallel to develop and validate a CFD methodology, based on multi-objective genetic algorithm, to optimise the V-tail empennage. Moreover, the project led to a fruitful exchange of ideas, expertise and knowledge, strengthening the bonds between JU partners.