A Study Of Aerodynamic Performance Evaluation And Comparison Techniques For V Stol Aircraft PDF Download

The report presents the results of an investigation of performance evaluation and comparison methods as applied to V/STOL aircraft. Attention is given to a number of aircraft having different sizes, gross weights, geometric configurations, and propulsion systems. Particular regard is given to the use of thermal fuel energy as a common basis for evaluation and comparison of V/STOL performance. The performance capabilities of typical V/STOL aircraft are presented and compared using both dimensional and nondimensional parameters containing fuel flow rate as a variable. In addition, three aircraft of different configurations are analyzed with regard to the effects of altitude, gross weight, and payload-to-fuel load ratio on the performance capability of each aircraft as indicated by both new and conventionally used methods. The total energy concept is discussed with regard to the optimization of climb schedules, and consideration is given to the limitations which apply to the use of nondimensional parameters which are used to describe the flow regimes of V/STOL aircraft. (Author).