Research Study for the Design of a Portable VTOL Blast Controlling Platform.

摘要

The feasibility of the concept for a portable blast-diverting platform for vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft was previously demonstrated by scale model tests. The platform would be assembled in the field from modules. Each module consists of a structural base containing air-deflector vanes and a load-bearing, gridded top. The platform would direct aircraft exhaust blast away from the aircraft and into the air to prevent terrain erosion, hot gas ingestion, adverse ground effects, and telltale 'signature' generated by military activity. The present research study to develop a design concept for a full-scale portable modular platform includes thermodynamic considerations, establishment of design criteria, a materials survey, and structural analyses. In the development of the design concept, ease of handling and field erection of the platform, minimization of special tooling, use of simplest manufacturing procedures, and cost savings in all areas were also considered. The study demonstrates that this type of modular platform can be designed for use with aircraft of various weights and engine exhaust characteristics. (Author)