Internship: Design and Testing of a Downscaled Highly Flexible Wing Model for Optical Deformation Measurements

The internship focuses on the practical realization of a representative, laboratory-scale measurement setup for supporting a large-scale wind tunnel campaign.
The main objective is to manufacture and test a simplified downscaled flexible wing model that will support the validation of the IPCT (Image Pattern Correlation Technique) measurement technology. IPCT is a contactless optical method for measuring surface displacements by comparing images of a patterned surface before and after deformation. In the context of flight testing, it is particularly useful for measuring wing deformation and aeroelastic behaviour in real conditions without requiring instrumentation of the wing with sensors. Within the EU-funded EXAELIA project, which develops flying test beds for advanced aircraft concepts such as hydrogen-powered and blended wing body designs, IPCT is developed further as an advanced measurement technique to support structural monitoring and reduce risks in future flight tests.

The internship work will support the characterization of wing deformations and provide valuable input for the preparation of the planned wind tunnel campaign involving a highly flexible wing.
The assignment will involve designing and hands-on manufacturing of a representative downscaled wing model (using 3D printing and the NLR manufacturing lab facilities), pattern generation for optical measurements, learning and applying IPCT principles, and supporting the setup and calibration of camera systems.

Assignment

• Design a representative downscaled flexible wing model based on given requirements

• Manufacture the model using 3D printing and the NLR manufacturing lab facilities

• Support assembly and preparation of the test setup (wing model, mounting, camera systems, lighting, etc.)

• Generate and apply optical patterns required for IPCT measurements

• Configure and calibrate the camera system

• Perform the IPCT measurements

• Collect and organize measurement data

• Collaborate with engineers to ensure successful realization of the test objectives

Result

• Design and manufacturing of a downscaled flexible wing model and the corresponding IPCT setup using NLR facilities to provide a practical demonstration of contactless deformation measurement techniques relevant for flexible aircraft structures

• Experimental validation of IPCT for measuring wing deformation, generating preliminary data and practical insights that support the maturation of optical full-field measurement methods within NLR’s research portfolio

• Contribution to NLR activities in the EXAELIA project, by assessing the applicability of advanced measurement techniques for future flight test beds, helping reduce risks and improve structural monitoring for innovative aircraft concepts

Duration

4/5 months, starting from June 2026 (flexible)

• University of Applied Sciences/university level student in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or similar

• Affinity with manufacturing and hands-on technical work

• Experience with 3D printing and/or camera-based measurement technology is a plus

• Assertive and self-motivated, able to be part of the project team and also proceed individually

Royal NLR has been the ambitious research organisation with the will to keep innovating for over 100 years. With that drive, we make the world of transportation safer, more sustainable, more efficient and more effective. We are on the threshold of breakthrough innovations. Plans and ideas start to move when these are fed with the right energy. Over 800 driven professionals work on research and innovation. From aircraft engineers to psychologists and from mathematicians to application experts.

Our colleagues are happy to tell you what it’s like to work at NLR.

Send your application, together with your motivation letter and CV and we will contact you as soon as possible. Contact Anna Biancotto: anna.biancotto@nlr.nl, +31 88 511 36 57.