The Ate AEROTECH Wind tunnel Model Support Strut is designed to support a scale model race car in the test section roof and can either be bolted to a support frame for use with an internal Balance or it can interface directly to the model platform of the Overhead Balance. The design of the strut provides minimal deflections whilst offering a narrow profile in the direction of wind thus minimising blockage. During test the entire strut should be shrouded with an Aerodynamic Fairing (which can be provided by ATE).
The fixed outer portion of the strut houses the moving inner strut which travels vertically on two linear guide rails. The precision actuator is mounted within the fixed strut and consists of a precision lead screw connected via a right angle gear box to the drive motor and brake. An encoder is mounted in line with the actuator to measure the exact position of the screw for maximum accuracy.
An internal, telescopic air line path is also provided to the base of the inner strut and the flexible cable tray mounted at the rear of the strut provides a safe route for instrumentation cabling allowing vertical motion without disturbance to cables. The base of the inner strut is machined with fixing holes to accept the user’s sting.
Technical Summary
Positional accuracy: 0.01 mm
Linear Speed: Up to 25 mm/sec
Vertical Motion: 500 mm upward travel for underbody work
Ride Height Motion: 50 mm Find Adjustment
Longitudinal Deflection: < 0.5 mm for full scale load
Lateral Deflection: < 0.5 mm for full scale load
Vertical Deflection: < 0.5 mm for full scale load
Weight: Approximately 250-350 kg depending upon load and deflection criteria
The above figures are typical only as each wind tunnel model support system is designed and manufactured to customer specific requirements. Different load ranges can usually be accommodated.
See our system in action at TMG (see video under ‘Multimedia’ sub heading).