IPCT Wing Deformation Measurements on a Large Transport Aircraft

Abstract

Aircraft wings are subject to deflection. Designers must therefore take into account in-flight wing bending and torsion, so that structural loads are well taken care of and that the wing has optimum aerodynamic performance. Models are used to calculate wing torsion and bending. These models need to be validated in flight and therefore non-intrusive measurement methods are preferred in order to avoid aerodynamic interferences. A photogrammetry method is already applied for these measurements, although this method has some constraints. Only static measurements are provided and accuracy depends on careful and time-consuming calibrations. Within the AIM (Advanced In-flight Measurement techniques) project various novel advanced non-intrusive measurement techniques are introduced for usage in flight. One of these novel techniques is the IPCT (Image Pattern Correlation Technique) applying advanced image correlation techniques as used in Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) on surfaces. Applying the IPCT can improve the accuracy, reduce installation time, provide local surface deformations and give dynamic results. IPCT uses image correlation to calculate the deformation of a wing with a speckled pattern. In this chapter the measurement technique, the installation on a large transport aircraft i.e. the A380 and the test performed in June 2009 will be described. At the end some results of the test will be presented.