ANALYTICAL LANDING GEAR - SOILS INTERACTION - PHASE 1
Abstract
The determination of aircraft flotation and operation capability on semi- and unprepared soil runways is a critical factor in developing forward area airfields in limited warfare situations. An investigation was conducted to determine the variables which significantly influence aircraft performance when operating on soil runways. Analysis of available experimental drag-sinkage-velocity data led to the defining of at least three distinct regions for which the sinkage ratio-velocity relationship shows a distinct response. A drag ratio-sinkage ratio equation was developed for use in one of these velocity regions. The effects of twin wheel and tandem wheel arrangements were analyzed on a preliminary basis. The results of a sinkage study using presently available sinkage prediction equations indicated that present sinkage analysis accuracy is in the range of plus or minus 50% to plus or minus 100%. In order to develop a suitable flotation criteria, an investigation was conducted of the dynamic landing gear contacting element-soil interaction response utilizing elastic theory. These results led to the development of a flotation parameter (related to sinkage) and a flotation index (related to drag) in nomographic form which permits comparative flotation analysis of landing gear systems.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1968
- Accession Number
- AD0840087
Entities
People
- David C. Kraft
Organizations
- University of Dayton