Solving the Moment Amplification Factor of a Lateral Jet by the Unsteady Motion Experimental Method

In this paper, unsteady motion tests of a lateral jet adjusting an air vehicle’s attitude are carried out. Curves of pitch moment amplification factors (KM) for a lateral jet versus angle of attack (α) are obtained using a wind tunnel free-flight test technique with a jet and data processing method. This new method overcomes the disadvantage of previous experiments that can study only one unsteady characteristic. The free-flight test technique in the proposed method ensures that the test model can be coupled in real-time with multiple parameters (unsteady flow caused by the jet, unsteady air vehicle aerodynamic force, and unsteady air vehicle motion). This approach simulates an actual air vehicle’s complete jet test process and ensures more authentic and reliable test results. In the new data processing method, continuous data curves are fitted to discrete data points, making it easier to convert the angular displacement versus time curve into the pitch moment versus α curve to obtain KM. The results show that when the pressure of the micro high-pressure gas cylinder is 2.0 MPa, KM is below 1, indicating that the lateral jet does not significantly promote the pitching moment. When the gas cylinder pressure is 4.0 MPa and the angle of attack is 5° < |α| < 16°, KM is greater than 1, and the lateral jet promotes the pitching moment. When 16° < |α| < 20°, KM is less than 1, and the lateral jet does not significantly contribute to the pitching moment. It was further found that KM decreases slowly with increasing α. When |α| > 30°, the influence of the jet on the pitching moment nearly disappears.