AIRBORNE ELECTRIC FIELD MILL (MECHANICAL ASPECTS).
Abstract
The Airborne Electric Field Mill is an electro-mechanical device which is externally mounted on an aircraft and is used to measure the strength of electric fields in the atmosphere and the direction relative to the line of flight from which they originate. This instrument has been used with excellent results in the Physics of the Atmosphere Research Program related to thunder storms. The mechanical design is discussed. Fasteners such as screws, rivets, welds, etc., could not be used on any exterior surface above the base mounting plate. Discussed also are the slip ring brush assembly and how grounding functions; the motor and power transmission system used to drive the rotor; the bearings and lubricants used; the weather-proofing methods and devices employed; the necessity for the acquisition and maintenance of dynamic balance in the rotor; and the tests performed during development to acquire confidence in the design. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1965
- Accession Number
- AD0619417
Entities
People
- John H. Kwik Jr.
Organizations
- United States Army Communications-Electronics Command