NASA langley research center (NASA larc) will conduct the maneuver acoustic flight test at the eglin AFB, test area C-85, in june/july 2011. The primary purpose for this flight test is to obtain a…

This is a cost-plus-fixed-fee delivery order awarded by NASA Langley Research Center (LARC) to the National Institute of Aerospace Associates (NIA), a non-profit research organization. The $29,998.00 contract is to support a Maneuver Acoustic Flight Test at Eglin Air Force Base in 2011. The primary purpose is to obtain a benchmark database of detailed acoustic source noise characteristics for a maneuvering helicopter. This data will be used to predict ground noise footprints, develop low-noise operations, and validate acoustic detection prediction programs such as the Rotorcraft Noise Model (RNM) and the Acoustic Propagation and Emulation Toolset (APET). The contract also involves the installation and utilization of a Tip Path Plane (TPP) system to measure a key parameter for understanding the acoustic data. This contract is not designated as a set-aside.

NASA langley research center (NASA larc) will conduct the maneuver acoustic flight test at the eglin AFB, test area C-85, in june/july 2011. The primary purpose for this flight test is to obtain a benchmark database of detailed acoustic source noise characteristics for a maneuvering helicopter. This database will be used to predict ground noise footprints due to vehicle operations, to develop low noise operations, and for validation of acoustic detection prediction programs. These prediction codes include the rotorcraft noise model (RNM) and a new acoustic detection prediction code called apet (acoustic propagation and emulation toolset) that is currently under development. Apet is a companion program to the rotorcraft noise model (RNM), which is an environmental noise prediction program. A key measurement in understanding the acoustic data acquired during this test is the location of the tip path plane (TPP). The TPP system was flown on two aircraft and shown to be fully functional during its development. However, the 2011 maneuver flight test is the first NASA test to utilize the system. The purpose of this task is to have the developer of the TPP system participate in the maneuver test. This will reduce the risk of acquiring this key parameter and provide hands on training to NASA personnel on the installation and utilization of the TPP system.