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Optimal load limiting parachute inflation control

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  04 July 2016

J. Redmond ,
G. G. Parker  and
T. D. Hinnerichs
J. Redmond
Affiliation:
Sandia National LaboratoriesAlbuquerque, USA
G. G. Parker
Affiliation:
Sandia National LaboratoriesAlbuquerque, USA
T. D. Hinnerichs
Affiliation:
Sandia National LaboratoriesAlbuquerque, USA
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Abstract

Excessive deceleration forces experienced during high speed deployment of parachute systems can cause damage to the payload and the canopy fabric. Conventional reefing lines offer limited relief by temporarily restricting canopy inflation and limiting the peak deceleration load. However, the open-loop control provided by existing reefing devices restricts their use to a specific set of deployment conditions. The sensing, processing, and actuation which are characteristic of adaptive structures form the basis of three concepts for active control of parachute inflation. These active control concepts are incorporated into a computer simulation of parachute inflation. Initial investigations indicate that these concepts promise enhanced performance as compared to conventional techniques for a nominal release. Furthermore, the ability of each controller to adapt to off-nominal release conditions is examined.

Type
Research Article
Information
The Aeronautical Journal , Volume 99 , Issue 987 , September 1995 , pp. 306 - 312
Copyright
Copyright © Royal Aeronautical Society 1995 

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