The Development of an Experimental Methodology for the Measurement of Aeroelastic Components

In high-end motorsport engineering, aerodynamic devices such as front and rear wings are prone to aeroelastic deformations under certain conditions, which can be exploited for vehicle performance gains. Considering the complex interactions between the aerodynamics and structures, experimental evaluation can prove to be a time-effective approach for design, optimisation, research and development regarding aeroelastic bodies. This study presents the development and experimental validation of a deformation tracking system using depth-sensing LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) camera technology. The system is based on the use of reflective markers mounted on a given model of interest; this project, a front wing model with a flexible, 3D printed flap element was used as a benchmark. Surface deformation is captured by post-processing point cloud data to extract three-dimensional displacement vectors. A series of controlled measurement tests were first conducted to assess accuracy and repeatability under known displacements. A full wind tunnel test campaign was then carried out to record surface deformation under aerodynamic loading, with flow speeds ranging from 10 to 35 m/s. Accuracy tests using a rigid marker setup showed a root mean square error (RMSE) range of 1 to 2 mm across a two-camera configuration with a combined error of sub-mm accuracy. The system was able to resolve consistent displacement trends as flow speed increased, with larger deformations observed near the centre-span of the flap element. Measured displacements exceeded 30 mm in the most flexible regions, and results were repeatable across test runs. The method demonstrated stable tracking performance and provided a practical alternative to more complex setups for characterising flexible aerodynamic components in controlled environments.