VARIABLE SWEEP: A CASE HISTORY OF MULTIPLE REINNOVATION,
Abstract
Almost as old as the science of aerodynamics, variable wing sweep was initially employed as a research tool, a device for experimentally ascertaining the effectiveness of a variety of sweep angles in flight. The first research aircraft of that type, the Messerschmitt P-1101, and one of the last, the Short S.B.5, had wings preset for sweep angle before flight, the P-1101 by means of a hinge and pin arrangement and the S.B.5 by interchanging matched sets of wings -- and tail surfaces. The Bell X-5, the first aircraft to change its wing angle in flight, and the Grumman XF-10F, the first variable sweep aircraft specifically designed as a prototype for an operational fighter, were representative of a different approach. Their sponsors were intent on taking advantage of variable geometry as an attractive adjunct to fighter performance capability. Although each of the early variable sweep aircraft employed its own version of contemporary technology, none was entirely successful. The paper reviews the early design and flight experience, surveys key patents, and examines the design trends that ultimately led to the TFX competition and thence to the F-111 and the proposed Angle-French variable geometry fighter. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0643136
Entities
People
- Robert L. Perry
Organizations
- RAND Corporation