A concept for the remote delivery of carbon-supported sliding payloads deployment from circling fixed-wing aircraft is presented. The payload uses a taut cable deployed from a circling aircraft that supports structure for sliding payloads from high altitudes to the ground. The cable tip is anchored for accurate positioning of cable tip on the ground. The cable dynamics is simulated showing a compulsory use of braking to slow the descent of the payload. The numerical simulation studies show that certain cable configurations provide better stability during sliding payload development. Braking system is used to reduce the velocity of the payload at the ground and prevent the payload from tripping the cable dynamic instability. The studies also show that additional braking is used when payload approaches the ground to reduce impact velocities. Optimization design of an appropriate braking system is an important aspect that is considered for the realization of aircraft delivery system.
History
Journal
Journal of Aircraft
Volume
43
Issue
5
Start page
1567
End page
1570
Total pages
4
Publisher
American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics