The VoloCity model is distinguished by its unique design, featuring 18 electric motors arranged in a circular elastic ring. "This distinctive feature poses a major challenge for the taxi's aeroelastic vibration behaviour," explains Keith Soal from the DLR Institute of Aeroelasticity in Gottingen. The vibration tests identified key structural behaviors, which can now be integrated into the air taxi's flight control system to improve handling during specific flight maneuvers.
Key Findings
During the week-long test conducted in Bruchsal, the fully assembled aircraft structure was subjected to vibrations. The aircraft was suspended using soft rubber ropes, and 210 acceleration sensors gathered data on its behavior under simulated flight conditions. DLR scientists in Gottingen analyzed the results in real-time, providing immediate feedback to Volocopter. This step is crucial for moving closer to obtaining flight certification for the VoloCity.
"The static vibration test has determined the dynamic properties of the VoloCity and confirmed the model predictions - an important milestone that brings us closer to certification," said Hugo Nunes, Aircraft Dynamics Manager at Volocopter.
Aeroelastic vibration testing is used to analyze the structural resonances of an aircraft under various loads. These tests are vital for identifying potential issues with vibrations and oscillations early on, ensuring the aircraft meets stringent safety and performance standards.
Innovative Urban Air Transport
Air taxis are innovative aircraft designed for short-distance transport of people or goods within urban areas. They combine the benefits of helicopters with the efficiency and environmental advantages of electric propulsion.
Aeroelasticity, a specialized field within aerospace engineering, studies the interaction between aerodynamic forces and the elastic vibrations of a structure. This field is crucial not only in aviation-affecting airplanes, helicopters, drones, and air taxis-but also in wind energy, where the aeroelastic interactions of rotor blades and wind turbines are analyzed. Ensuring the stability, controllability, and structural integrity of these systems is essential. The DLR Institute of Aeroelasticity in Gottingen is recognized as a European leader in vibration testing for both aircraft and wind turbines.
The Gottingen-based institute previously conducted a vibration test on an earlier model of the VoloCity in 2021. The findings from that test have guided the development of this improved successor model.
Related Links
DLR Institute of Aeroelasticity
Aerospace News at SpaceMart.com
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