GEM RESEARCH AT THE UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS.
Abstract
Overland maneuvering of a ground effect machine in close quarters at low speeds is extremely difficult. Novice pilots tend to scan the control axes cyclically, and to pulse the controls to maximum excursion in the manner of an off-on servomechanism rather than a proportional controller. Control is simplified by disabling the lateral acceleration system, or by utilizing an automatic lateral drift stabilizer. Lateral friction resulting from wheel contact at light pressure enormously improves the overland handling qualities of a ground effect machine. Even the most rudimentary flight simulator provides valuable experience in the unique 'feel' of a ground effect machine, and gives effective forewarning of what to expect at the controls of a real machine. It is theoretically possible to build an 'inverted' ground effect machine, that inhales outside air into the cushion area and vents it to a propulsion duct. Such a device offers potential reductions in spray and dust problems and attractive structural features for shipboard stowage, at the expense of difficulty in heave stability. Static stability of the pressurized structure of the 'inverted' GEM has been investigated in detail, and some progress has been made toward flutter analysis of its flexible elements. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 30, 1965
- Accession Number
- AD0629725
Entities
People
- C. J. Choliasmenos
- J. B. Tiedemann
- V. Sundararajan
- W. F. Teague
Organizations
- University of Kansas