Hawk 100 Trainer Aircraft

Project Information

Year: 2001
Duration: May - July
Customer: ATE
Contact Persons: Jurgen Dresel and Jones Kalunga

Summary

Poynting was contracted by Chelton Avionics to do the simulation of various antennas on the HAWK aircraft. Grid models of the aircraft were generated and the antennas simulated using SuperNEC.

Scale models of the aircraft were built and measurements done to validate the numerical models.

Project Details

Two copper plated scale models (25: 1 and 72: 1) were constructed for scale model measurements. The 25 : 1 scale model could cover the entire frequency band of interest, while the 72 : 1 scale model could cover only the lower frequency range of interest. Azimuth, pitch and roll radiation pattern cuts were measured for three antennas at the frequencies of interest.
Numerical models using Method of Moment (MoM) and Uniform Theory of Diffraction (UTD) were generated. SuperNEC was used to simulate the numerical models. SuperNEC simulations produced azimuth, pitch and roll radiation pattern cuts for the three antennas at the various frequencies of interest. (The different cuts can be seen in the graphs below). The verification of the numerical models was performed by comparing the measured and computed 2 dimensional radiation patterns. Measurements were done at the Compact Range at the University of Pretoria. The measured and simulated patterns were normalised and overlaid on top of each, other for comparison purposes.
Most of the pattern cut comparisons show exceptionally good correlation between the SuperNEC simulations and the physical measurements. Antenna-to-antenna coupling was computed using SuperNEC. ASEP (Antenna Simulation and Evaluation Package) was used to provide signal strength for typical flight profiles.

Poynting Innovations specialises in aircraft antenna placement studies, antenna system evaluation and aircraft communication assessments. In the last 10 years, we have gained extensive experience from ongoing work for the SAAF (South African Air Force) and other clients in this field. Antenna systems of many aircraft including: the ORYX helicopter, the CHEETAH D fighter, the HERCULES C130 transport aircraft, the ROOIVALK attack helicopter, the DAKOTA transport aircraft, the BK117 helicopter, the Boeing 707, the PILATUS PC7 MKII ASTRA trainer and the Pilatus new generation trainer (full antenna layout for Swiss manufacturer) have been evaluated, measured and modified by PI. Antenna matching hardware was also developed and implemented in some cases. Extremely valuable experience has been gained from working close together with test pilots and ATC's (Air Traffic Controllers) who are constantly relying on the aircraft's communication performance.

Home Price List Contact Us Download News Info Applications

Top of Page