Measured Characteristics of the X-24A Lifting Body Flight Control System.
Abstract
Data obtained from ground tests on the X-24A lifting body flight control system are presented in this report. A thorough knowledge of system operation was essential to conduct a safe research flight test program. The extensive ground testing provided this knowledge. A complete operational description was necessary for realizing system capabilities and for altering system characteristics to meet the needs of the flight mission. The flexibility designed into the control system allowed for the many changes and alterations which were made to the control system throughout the flight test program. Although the system was relatively complex, it performed with very few inflight failures or malfunctions. Modifications were made to the control system before the first flight to meet ground test limit cycle and structural resonance criteria. After these modifications were made, the vehicle operated without limit cycling or structural resonance occurring during flight. The stability augmentation system operated throughout the entire program without incurring a total axis failure. This degree of reliability was especially important for a vehicle of this type in which flight safety was highly dependent upon an operating stability augmentation system. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1972
- Accession Number
- AD0904582
Entities
People
- Paul W. Kirsten
Organizations
- Air Force Test Center