Accession Number : ADA032716

Title :   Investigation into the Feasibility of Utilizing Wind Shear for Obtaining Continuous Non-Powered Flight.

Descriptive Note : Research rept.,

Corporate Author : NAVAL ACADEMY ANNAPOLIS MD

Personal Author(s) : Johnson, Frederick G.

Report Date : 03 JUN 1976

Pagination or Media Count : 56

Abstract : The feasibility of utilizing an atmospheric velocity gradient for obtaining continuous non-powered flight was analyzed mathematically and experimentally. It was discovered that there seems to be no theoretical bar to using wind shear for this purpose. The velocity gradients in the upper atmosphere were found to be too weak for maintaining continuous non-powered flight. But in the vicinity of the earth's boundary layer wind shear strengths necessary for this purpose were observed. A theoretical flight pattern was developed - numerically analyzed and flight tested - using a powered aircraft to simulate high performance sailplanes. Though an increase in aircraft performance was realized, a zero net loss of altitude was not achieved. It is concluded, however, that further research is warranted, especially concerning the related topics of jet stream shears, vertical updraft considerations and more efficient flight schedules. (Author)

Descriptors :   *NONPOWERED FLIGHT, FLIGHT TESTING, NUMERICAL ANALYSIS, BOUNDARY LAYER, FEASIBILITY STUDIES, MATHEMATICAL ANALYSIS, WIND SHEAR, ATMOSPHERES.

Subject Categories : Aerodynamics

Distribution Statement : APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE