Multi-Fidelity Validation of Control Surface Deflection Predictions Using FlightStream

This paper presents a multi-fidelity validation for control surface modeling using FlightStream® on a fixed-wing Group 1 unmanned aerial vehicle, with the goal of advancing its use in control law development. Predictions from high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and experimental load cell measurements using a WindShape® multi-fan array wind generator are integrated in this study and serve as independent benchmarks for comparison to evaluate aileron deflection loads. Both full-model and strip theory approaches derived using FlightStream® are implemented and provide mid-fidelity aerodynamic predictions. CFD simulations and WindShape® testing data–obtained through static analysis and system identification–are compared to FlightStream® predictions to assess the accuracy and applicability of mid-fidelity aerodynamic analysis for use in control law development. The results showed promising agreement with CFD and WindShape data, validating both full-model and strip theory control surface derivative estimates. The FlightStream® strip theory model was then tested in a series of piloted commands to verify flight performance.