GROUND TEST VEHICLE TESTING

Ground Test Vehicle (GTV) testing has proven to be very valuable in helicopter development programs. Not only is the GTV utilized for the purpose of qualifying certain subsystems, but the GTV can be utilized to perform investigative or design support tests on a particular subsystem prior to or during flight testing. Bench testing results in qualification at the particular subsystem or component level, whereas, the GTV testing results in qualification at the system level, where the effects of the interfacing of the various subsystems are evaluated. It is a common misconception that the GTV is limited, however, to drive system qualification only. Engine/airframe interface is evaluated prior to flight, exhaust IR suppressor systems can be qualified and evaluated for IR suppression capability, hydraulic systems, pneumatic and starting systems, rotor/aircraft clearance, engine and drive system cooling, main and tail rotor stability and compatibility, and fuel system testing can be accomplished prior to first flight. This type of testing is utilized to verify that no safety of flight concerns exist in the aircraft systems prior to first flight and during early flight testing. Furthermore, the GTV can be utilized in other ways in the development program to include testing in the Climatic Hanger and to verify design changes prior to incorporating the changes on the flight vehicle. This paper will discuss the philosophy behind the requirement for GTV testing and discuss objectives and the value of GTV testing.