Damping device and in-flight refuelling system incorporating such a device, and method of preventing oscillation in in-flight refuelling system components

摘要

An in-flight refuelling system, damping device, and method which enhances the stability of an elongate hose 114 extending from a tanker aircraft 110 during an in-flight re-fuelling operation is disclosed. The in-flight refuelling system comprises a passive, integrated damping device 130 that may generate electrical energy from changes in disposition of the elongate hose 114 and then using the electrical energy generated to impart mechanical damping forces to a portion of the elongate hose 114. Thus, the damping device 130 aims to minimise the occurrence of oscillations in the elongate hose 114 as it extends from the tanker aircraft 110 during an in-flight refuelling operation.