Abstract
Wind tunnel models are frequently mounted on long cantilever stings in order to reduce support system flow interference on data. However, such support systems are prone to sting vibrations. Such sting oscillations are well known to limit the test envelope and affect data quality in many test situations. The model support cantilever is a multi-degree freedom elastic system of spring-mass elements with inherently low structural damping. When exposed to tunnel flow, turbulence and model flow separation excite resonant Eigen modes of cantilever resulting in large vibrations due to low damping. The problem is further complicated when the model passes through stall resulting in nonlinear lift load changes. This paper describes the development and experimental wind tunnel evaluation of an active damping system using Piezoceramic actuators with balance signal feedback. It is shown that the equivalent sting damping can be increased tenfold or more, and can work in post-stall situations. Such sting damping systems can improve data quality from wind tunnel tests and permit testing in to post stall conditions.
Published Version
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