Patent ID: 10053238

Abstract:
A fixture, system, and method are provided for testing one or more axial loads in a flexible aerodynamic member. The fixture has a structural frame assembly with a first end portion, a second end portion, and an intermediate portion. The fixture has a first pivotal linkage assembly pivotable about a pitch axis, a pair of pitch actuators to apply a pitch moment to the first pivotal linkage assembly, a second pivotal linkage assembly pivotable about a flap axis, and a pair of flap actuators to apply a flap bending moment to the second pivotal linkage assembly. The fixture has a third pivotal linkage assembly pivotable about the pitch axis, and has a pair of chord actuators to apply axial load to the flexible aerodynamic member. The fixture minimizes deflections of a tip of the flexible aerodynamic member during testing to provide an improved accuracy of axial load measurement data.