A Review of Wind Tunnel Based Virtual Flight Testing Techniques for Evaluation of Flight Control Systems

Figure 10

For the wind tunnel free-flying test, the aircraft model is remotely controlled or uncontrolled. It flies unconstrainedly in the tunnel test section, which can avoid the interference of model support rigs. The only aerodynamic interference comes from the safety cable (if added). Free-flying test methods include free-flight [26–39], free spin [40], free tumble [41], and free fall [7]. A VFT architecture proposed by Standard Missile Company [85].