Development of a modular test rig for in-flight validation of a multi-hole probe onboard the e-Genius-Mod

Abstract

Scaled flight demonstrators have played an important part throughout the history of aviation. Ranging from aviation pioneers to renowned institutions like the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), many actors have relied on miniaturized models in both research and development. Despite the age of the method, sub-scale models are still being used as a low-cost option for flight tests in realistic flight conditions. One utilization aspect that is becoming increasingly popular is as a flying test platform for the development and testing of new aviation technologies or capabilities. By conducting flight tests in real atmospheric conditions, it enables a low-cost link between analytical studies and full-scale testing, consequently closing the gap between Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) 4 and 6, which is both time- and cost-efficient. For this paper, the utilization of the e-Genius-Mod, a modular scaled version of the all-electric e-Genius aircraft, as a versatile platform for testing new technologies is being investigated. As a case study, a multi-hole probe (MHP) is installed onto the aircraft through a custom-made wing adapter and connected to an independent data collection system. By using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations and wind-tunnel tests, the probe installation is validated, paving the way for upcoming flight tests.