Rolling power measurements and comparative calculations for a flexible model wing constructed from xylonite

Abstract

Partly to gain experience of aero-elastic models constructed from Xylonite, and partly to provide information regarding loss of rolling power due to wing distortion, a tip-to-tip model of the wings of a Spitfire aircraft was constructed. It was mounted on a longitudinal axis in a wind tunnel so that it could roll continuously. Rates of rolling were measured for a range of air speeds and the results are compared with those of calculations. The variation of rolling power with air speed was calculated by : (a) the Collar and Broadbent method (R. & M. 2186) which is based on strip theory, (b) a method developed by H. C. Garner based on lifting-line theory.