Advanced Methods for In-Flight Flap Gap and Wing Deformation Measurements in the Project AWIATOR

Abstract

For the investigation of the effectiveness of special high lift devices like mini trailing edge devices (Mini –TEDs) and sub-boundary vortex generators (SBVG) it is necessary to obtain information about the position and deformation of the high lift components. The gap between the wing trailing edge and the flap influences the aerodynamic performance of the high lift system distinctly. A variation of the flap gap due to a change of the wing load affects the flow of the flap, especially as far as flow separation is concerned. Thus gap variation has to be considered for a complete analysis of the flow characteristics of the flaps.