Flight Test Results of a Powered Parafoil System (Aeroflyer)
Abstract
Eighty flight tests of the AeroFlyer are carried out in order to demonstrate that it can fly and in order to obtain flight performance data. All of these tests are summarized with particular emphasis on the data obtained from the three flight tests at Wright Field. These demonstrate that the AeroFlyer can take off directly from the ground, climb, turn right and left, glide and achieve a precision soft landing. The data from the three flights at Wright Field is analyzed and compared with performance predictions. The turns were accomplished by rudder, by wing deflection, and by combinations of both. The representative flight velocity is 29 mph and the rate of climb is 60 ft/min for an AeroFlyer weighing 579.3 lbs. using a 400 sq. ft. Parafoil. The horsepower required for level flight was 12. The minimum radius of turn demonstrated was 175 ft. and the nominal landing roll was estimated to be less than 20 ft. This performance data is used to predict optimum parafoil performance for flight system weights ranging from 10 lbs. to 10,000 lbs. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1976
- Accession Number
- ADA056569
Entities
People
- John D. Nicolaides