Transient load measurements on parachute models represented by two-dimensional cambered plates

Date

1990-08

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Texas Tech University

Abstract

If the parachute deceleration of a payload results in a large momentum transfer to the surrounding fluid over a relatively short distance, the resulting wake velocities may be large enough for the wake to overtake and collapse the parachute. This report describes an experimental test program aimed at investigating the aerodynamic interaction between the parachute and its wake. The test program involves examination of the transient loading on rigid two-dimensional circular arcs during their motion through a water-filled tow-tank. The transient loads on circular arcs with included angles of 120, 180, and 240 degrees were obtained by simultaneously measuring instantaneous pressure distributions and drag forces. The loads are reduced to a drag history which shows the variation of the drag coefficient with time for each circular arc.

Description

Keywords

Parachutes -- Aerodynamics, Dead loads (Mechanics), Drag (Aerodynamics), Wakes (Aerodynamics)

Citation