The five-hole probe or multi-hole probe provides critical information about the flow characteristics, including airspeed, angle of attack (AoA), angle of side-slip (AoS), and total pressure recovery. Static ports measure altitude. Simtec's five hole probes work down to very low airspeed. Sophisticated aerodynamic correction algorithms ensure that highly accurate air data is calculated up to large flow angles.
The AoA and AoS information obtained from five-hole probes are crucial for safe and efficient operation of aircraft, especially during critical phases such as take-off, landing, and low-speed manoeuvrers. It helps the flight control computer maintain optimal lift, prevent stalling, and ensure proper control of the aircraft. Simtec's Air Data Systems are used on many prototype eVTOL, MALE and Tactical UAVs since many years. They are also used to gather highly accurate data during flight testing. With the ADS-12, Simtec develops a certified version of a 5-hole probe that meets demanding ETSO, DO-160G and DO-178C requirements. Prototypes are in use by eVTOL, UAV and HAPS customers.