A QUALITATIVE DISCUSSION OF THE STABILITY AND CONTROL OF VTOL AIRCRAFT DURING HOVER (OUT OF GROUND EFFECT) AND TRANSITION

Abstract

A survey of the latest available literature was made in order to qualitatively discuss stability and control problems of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft during hover (out of ground effect) and the transition to level flight. Modes of propulsion and methods of performing the transition maneuver are discussed. Comparisons are made of the various methods utilized for providing control forces at zero and very low speeds. The need for quantitative control power requirements and handling qualities criteria is presented. The instability of VTOL aircraft while hovering is discussed, as are the basic reasons for the poor damping characteristics at low speeds. Problems which have been encountered to date with research aircraft and which are peculiar to a given VTOL mode are discussed by mode. The need for automatic stabilization and precision instrumentation requirements are presented.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 01, 1964
Accession Number
AD0622205

Entities

People

  • Paul J. Weitz

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aerodynamic Characteristics
  • Aircraft Equipment
  • Aircrafts
  • Airframes
  • Fluid Dynamics
  • Ground Effect
  • Horizontal Stabilizers
  • Jet Aircraft
  • Jet Engines
  • Research Aircraft
  • Short Takeoff Aircraft
  • Shrouded Propellers
  • Stabilization Systems
  • Tilt Wing Aircraft
  • Tilt Wings
  • Turbofan Engines
  • Vertical Takeoff Aircraft

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Systems Analysis and Design