Wind tunnel tests of quad-rotor autogyro model

The wind tunnel investigation of basic aerodynamic characteristics as well as flow visualization tests of the innovative quad-rotor autogyro model is presented. The wind tunnel measurements of aerodynamic characteristics were carried out using 6-component internal strain-gauge balance. In the area of the main rotor and quad-rotors, the flow visualization tests were performed by PIV (Particle Image Velocimetry) System. The work was carried out in cooperation with the Lublin University of Technology, which provided a model of gyroplane manufactured according to their own concept. In the experimental study an influence of quad-rotors as well as pusher propeller on the autogyro model characteristics were determined by measurements aerodynamic forces and moments for a number of selected model configurations. The wind tunnel experimental tests were performed in the Institute of Aviation low speed wind tunnel T-1, characterized by 1.5 m diameter test section. The investigations were carried out for undisturbed flow velocity V∞ = 12.5 m/s, which corresponds to the Reynold’s number, Re = 0.82 * 106 referred to 1 m, The angles of attack used in the experiment were implemented in two ranges -40 ≤ α \ ≤ 20 and 00≤ α ≤ 130, with a sideslip angle β = 0. The tests showed that the flow induced by quad-rotors interfered with the flow induced by the main rotor changing the autogyro aerodynamic characteristics.