Avrocar Continuation Test Program and Terrain Test Program, 06/01/1960 - 06/14/1961

US National Archives7 minutes read

Modifications to the Avrocar were made based on tunnel testing at N.A.S.A. Ames Research Center to improve control systems, with changes focused on diverting the annular jet aft for increased thrust. Despite facing stability and control issues during flight testing, the Avrocar demonstrated its capability to operate over different terrains, paving the way for further development.

Insights

  • Modifications to the Avrocar were implemented after tunnel testing at N.A.S.A. Ames Research Center, focusing on enhancing control systems for hovering, transition, and forward flight by altering jet deployment strategies and redirecting annular jet flow for improved thrust and aerodynamics.
  • The Avrocar encountered stability and control challenges during flight tests post-modifications, necessitating adjustments to the hovering control system and central jet configuration; however, it showcased the ability to operate over diverse terrains despite setbacks like engine issues from low-density material ingestion, setting the stage for future enhancements in thrust capabilities for vertical takeoff and forward flight transition.

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Recent questions

  • What modifications were made to the Avrocar?

    Changes focused on control systems and jet deployment.

  • Where were the control system tests conducted?

    Static and flight tests were done at Avro and Ames Research Center.

  • What challenges did the Avrocar face during flight testing?

    Stability and control issues arose from modifications.

  • What obstacles were tested during terrain tests?

    Various obstacles were used to demonstrate operational capabilities.

  • What was the outcome of the Avrocar's flight testing?

    Successful demonstration of operating over different terrains.

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Summary

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Avrocar Modifications Improve Control Systems for Flight

  • Modifications were made to the Avrocar based on tunnel testing results at N.A.S.A. Ames Research Center to improve control systems for hovering, transition, and forward flight.
  • The modifications included deploying the peripheral jet sheet from the wing tip for transition and forward flight, with changes mainly focused on diverting the annular jet aft for increased thrust and better aerodynamic and control characteristics.
  • The control system was tested through static and flight tests at Avro and Ames Research Center, with additional terrain tests over various obstacles to demonstrate the vehicle's ability to operate over unprepared terrain.
  • The Avrocar faced challenges during flight testing due to stability and control issues resulting from the modifications, requiring adjustments to the hovering control system and central jet configuration.
  • Despite some difficulties like ingestion of low-density material causing engine issues, the Avrocar successfully demonstrated its capability to operate over different terrains, paving the way for further development to increase thrust for vertical takeoff and forward flight transition.
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