SINATRA has enabled the application of Filtered Rayleigh Scattering (FRS) technology for the measurement of distorted complex flows pertinent to air induction system flows or any other internal flow systems aeronautical. Furthermore, it hasallowed the FRS technology to be assessed to a level similar to other non-intrusive technologies currently better mastered within academia and industry such as Stereo Particle Image Velocimetry (S-PIV) or Doppler Global Velocimetry (DGV).
In the context of Clean Aviation programme, FRS measurement capability would be especially applicable to the following air-transport/mobility missions:
• “Disruptive configurations (distributed propulsion, BLI (Boundary Layer Ingestion), aero control)” where the assessment of inlet fan distortions will be paramount in future eco-efficient designs;
• “Qualification and digital certification - A smarter, more efficient mix of sub-scale test, ground test, virtual simulation and flight test will bring faster product innovation cycles within reach.” Ability to use FRS technology along the complete development cycle for ground and in-flight measurements will be a stronger enabler to achieve this mission. Faster and more educated design choices will be possible, development and test campaign costs will be reduced and relevant data more rapidly acquired.
Providing a state of the art, modular test bed for non-intrusive measurements:
SINATRA has provided a test rig to aero-engine and aircraft manufacturers as well as other academic and research organisations which will offer capabilities to unlock the complex intake aerodynamics which are critical for the safe operation of closely coupled aircraft engine concepts. SINATRA’s methods for complex flow diagnostics and analysis will educate the engine design process and will accelerate the engine testing and certification phases. This has strong potential to influence the timescales and costs of novel engine development programmes.
Improving the overall technique to create new markets opportunities for other applications:
Unlike most laser-optical measurement methods, the FRS technique is not tailored to a specific application (e.g. reacting flows in spectroscopic methods), but it pursues a universal approach that is suitable for the characterisation of aerodynamic flow processes, multi-phase flows or reacting flows typically found in gas turbine or automotive combustion systems, high pressure turbines or other chemical and process engineering applications where temperature, pressure and velocity data are key requirements.
Improving EU competitiveness and mobility:
The mastering of closely-coupled BLI propulsion systems allows the European sector to propose new aircraft concepts within an increasingly electrified world with a variety of new mobility missions (hybrid electric regional or business jet, air taxis, smart rotor craft, etc.) all of which will improve the mobility offering for EU citizens within the 2050 timeframe. This will improve their competitiveness by allowing them to gain the knowledge to propose these aircraft as products sooner than their worldwide competitors.
