Use of the Analog Computer in the Study of the Effects of Aerodynamics on Ballistic Trajectory.

Abstract

A study was made to see if the analog computer could be programmed in such a manner that it became a useful tool for the weapons design engineer in his analysis of free-fall bomb trajectories. The equations of motion were derived for the two-dimensional trajectory of a bomb, including pitching motion about the nominal flight path. The aerodynamic forces and moments were generated on the computer by means of nonlinear components. Several trial runs were made and it was determined that the accuracy of the analog solution, when compared to an equivalent digital solution, was sufficient for a first order analysis of trajectory variations. The use of the program was demonstrated by varying static margin and initial angle of attack and observing the resultant changes in the ground range of the bomb. The program is more versatile than this, however, and can be used to observe all trajectory phenomena while varying any of the physical or aerodynamic parameters. (Author)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1972
Accession Number
AD0770081

Entities

People

  • John A. Wiles

Organizations

  • Air Force Institute of Technology

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aerodynamic Forces
  • Analog Computers
  • Ballistic Trajectories
  • Bomb Trajectories
  • Bombs
  • Computers
  • Equations
  • Equations Of Motion
  • Flight Paths
  • Trajectories
  • Two Dimensional
  • Unguided Bombs

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Aerodynamics/Aeronautics.
  • Integrated Circuit Design and Technology.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Spacecraft Maneuvers