Remote Track Tapering
Abstract
Projectile models are tested at Arnold Engineering Development Center's 880 foot-long G-Range test track, at speeds up to 20,000 feet per second. Under certain circumstances, it is desirable to taper portions of the track to compensate for wear on the models. By doing so, the models are prevented from 'skipping' from side-to-side. Current track tapering methods require operators to manually adjust each track section, one rail at a time. This method is time consuming and labor-intensive. A Phase I SBIR project was conducted to determinate the feasibility of developing a remotely-operable track tapering system to quickly and accurately adjust up to 80 separate rails. The study resulted in the design, fabrication and demonstration of a stable and repeatable prototype electro-mechanical actuator. A conceptual design has been developed that includes a control system and associated local area network. The system will be programmable to allow several possible taper angles over a distance of 200 feet. The successful completion of a Phase I feasibility study has laid the groundwork for a Phase II effort to develop a fully-functional track tapering system. A remotely-controllable track tapering system will significantly improve efficiency and reduce operating costs of G-Range.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA231175
Entities
People
- J. C. Hake
- J. L. Doyle
- P. D. Bondurant