Briton Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) – with manufacturing connections in the US – and 42 Technology, have joined forces to help the Aircraft Research Association (ARA) develop and launch an innovative new research tool for use within its high-speed wind tunnel in Bedford.
The two companies have developed a sophisticated control system for ARA’s new gust generator, the first of its kind in the world capable of simulating gusts at transonic, or cruising, speeds typically experienced by aircraft. 42 Technology designed the system to link the generator’s control desk with a network of 1800 solenoid valves, each of which needs to be opened and closed within 20 milliseconds to deliver the required gust profiles.
The new generator will help to drive new research into improving understanding of how turbulence affects aircraft performance. It is part of an investment at ARA in new systems and services, funded to the order of £9m by the Aerospace Technology Institute.