OWACSA · Autonomous Camera System validation and its installation on an in-service Aircraft for Leading Edge Photography

The capability to measure Leading Edge Contamination by insects during in-service flight will dramatically improve the knowledge of possible disturbances on the laminar flow according to altitude, climatic zones, seasons, and environment as well as the knowledge of cleaning impact of flight through rain or clouds and any impacts of WIPS operations. This enhanced knowledge is one of the keys for drag reduction and consequently fuel consumption.In order to install a low weight camera able i) to take accurate photography during commercial operational flights and ii) to work autonomously during at least two days, a preliminary design has shown that one must i) choose hardware with a low energy consumption, ii) locate each piece of it at its right place to optimize its work duration time, iii) manage energy consumptions and power production, and iv) mount embedded for all component in an aerodynamic fairing.Thanks to the patented CaptiFlex™ technology which was validated by DGA EV in the same flight domain as the domain of an airliner aircraft. OWACSA project is very innovative and with low risks. The main advantages of OWACSA solution are i) no permanent change to the aircraft airframe (neither hole at its installation nor paint work touch up at its removal), ii) a very fast installation and removal, iii) a very good quality of the photography, iv) a low energy consumption associated to autonomous power production leads to many days of autonomy, v) a very low aerodynamic impact, and vi) a very fast data transmission when the plane is on the ground.""