WIND TUNNEL TEST OF A SELF-ALIGNING SPIKE.
Abstract
The spike protected dome concept for supersonic odies has previously been demonstrated to be a promising technique for protection against rain erosion as well as reducing drag, aerodynamic and structural loading. It is desirable, however, that the spike be aligned with the oncoming flow such that a uniform flow separation region may be maintained over the dome. Towards a solution to this problem the self-aligning spike system automatically maintains spike alignment with the airstream using a self-contained unit which requires no external power. This system has now been demonstrated at M = 5.0. The results show that spike alignment in the airstream may be maintained within plus or minus 3 deg up to an angle of attack of 20 deg. Natural frequencies of the system were well beyond the natural frequencies of typical missiles.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0488618
Entities
People
- James E. Nicholson
- Joseph J. Rossi
- Richard H. Adams