Abstract
Current autonomous parafoil and payload aircraft are controlled by deflection of the canopy trailing edge. Asymmetric trailing edge deflection results in a turn, symmetric deflection results in a change in speed with little change in glide slope. The inability to control glide slopewith these traditional canopy controlmechanisms is severely detrimental to the landing accuracy of parafoil and payload aircraft, especially when turbulent atmospheric conditions or difficult terrain are present near the landing area. An alternative canopy control mechanism is investigated where internal air is vented through the upper surface of the canopy to create an aerodynamic spoiler. Flight-test results for various configurations of the spoiler concept are presented. It is shown that a dramatic change in glide slope can be generatedwith relatively small spoiler actuations. Furthermore, it is shown that the same lateral control authority availablewith trailing edge brakes can be achievedwith asymmetric actuation of the upper-surface spoilers.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.