Minimizing the Sequenced Delay Time for Escape From High-Speed Low-Level Flight Profiles

Abstract

The time delay that occurs between the actuation of an escape system and the actual initiation of the ejection catapult acceleration to separate the crew from an aircraft is one of the critical factors in the design of escape systems for high-speed low-level (HSLL) flight conditions. This delay may preclude what could otherwise be a successful escape from certain HSLL profiles. The purpose of this paper is to examine the significance of current operational delay times and describe techniques to minimize the delays. Operational through-the-canopy ejection data are presented to assess the risk of injury incurred in eliminating the delay time altogether. Experimental data from tests with human volunteers are presented to demonstrate the potential for significantly reducing the time required for upper torso retraction. Finally, the implications of available aeromedical evidence are evaluated in the definition of the most promising approaches to minimize the time required for a HSLL escape sequence.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Oct 01, 1979
Accession Number
ADA459680

Entities

People

  • James H. Raddin
  • James W. Brinkley
  • Lawrence J. Specker

Organizations

  • Air Force Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Biomedical

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Actuators
  • Air Force
  • Air Force Facilities
  • Aircrafts
  • Altitude
  • Biomedical Research
  • Ejection
  • Ejection Seats
  • Escape Systems
  • Flight
  • High Altitude
  • Hydraulic Actuators
  • Level Flight
  • Low Altitude
  • Pressure Measurement
  • Spinal Injuries
  • United States

Readers

  • Aviation Science / Aeronautics.
  • Explosive Engineering.
  • Systems Analysis and Design