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The testing of a titanium matrix composite (TMC) F-15 nose gear outer cylinder is discussed. Two cylinders were fabricated. An entire F-15 nose gear was assembled using the first cylinder. This test gear underwent static structural tests to three critical loading conditions and functional evaluations including load-stroke, rebound snubbing, jig drops and strut stroke cycling. The TMC cylinder successfully completed both groups of testing with no signs of structural or functional degradation.

The U.S. Air Force has recognized the need for an alternative to the conventional hydraulic brake system. Hazards associated with fires and the maintenance required for a hydraulically actuated system are the principal drawbacks of hydraulic brake systems. In addition, an alternative brake system will be required to support a “More Electric” aircraft of the future. The solution to these problems was provided by the “Electrically Actuated Brake Technology (ELABRAT)” program, a three year program sponsored by the Flight Dynamics Directorate at Wright Patterson AFB. ELABRAT developed and demonstrated an Electromechanically Actuated (EMA) brake system to replace the existing hydraulically actuated piston housing and associated hydraulic control hardware.

Effects which normally diminish the value of a manually flown instrument approach are examined in the light of flight test results with the Head-Up Display (HUD). It is possible to avoid shortsightedness (space myopia) and disorientation phenomena associated with poor external visibility, by choice of display position and format, allowing an efficient alternation between display and forward view. The display can also be designed to fit the man, in both static and dynamic characteristics, with benefits of rapid learning and accurate tracking. These results remove the basis for supposing man's intervention in the all-weather landing to be disastrous. On the other hand, man's participation may be necessary, because more information is connected with a safe approach than can be dealt with by an unaided machine. Synthesis of an automatic system with HUD may turn out to be the most acceptable solution to the overall problem of all-weather operation.

Heat powered ECS concepts using a Rankine or Stirling power cycle to drive a vapor compression refrigeration cycle were evaluated for future fighter aircraft. Arrangements with separated power cycle and refrigeration cycle working fluids were considered, as were arrangements combining these cycles via a common working fluid. Promising heat sources and working fluids for these concepts were identified. Haste heat sources in the propulsion system and airframe were compared with regard to heat capacity, temperature level, and collection system design complexity. A screening process, which distinguished between the requirements imposed by the power cycle and refrigeration cycle, was developed to select promising working fluids. Concepts were evaluated using various system arrangements, heat sources, and working fluids to minimize the ECS-related TOGW penalty.

On the Thermodynamic Spectrum of Airbreathing Propulsion - Insights from 1958 are valid guidelines yet in 1988 - Paul Czysz. Staff Manager, McDonnell Douglas Fellow. McDonnell Douglas Corporation

The United States Marine Corps (USMC), the Royal Air Force (RAF) and Royal Navy of the United Kingdom have proven the operational benefits provided by fixed wing powered lift aircraft. The USMC demonstrated the powered lift fixed wing V/STOL light attack concept in the United States with the AV-8A. The Marines eventually needed additional range and payload capability due to expanded mission requirements, but could not afford a simultaneous engine and airframe development program. The AV-8B was developed, fielded, and successfully filled all stated Operational Requirements identified at that time. It is time now to plan for and expand the powered lift capabilities further to keep the AV-8B effective as part of the Marine Amphibious Task Force in the face of growing threat capabilities. The cornerstone of this improvement is the Pegasus −408 growth engine.

McDonnell Aircraft Company (MCAIR) is currently conducting the STOL/Maneuver Technology Demonstrator (S/MTD) Program for the Air Force's Flight Dynamics Laboratory (AFFDL) under Contract F33615-84-C-30I5. This program involves the modification of an F-15B. S/N 71-290, to incorporate the following advanced technologies: Two dimensional, thrust vectoring/thrust reversing exhaust nozzles (2D TV/TR) An integrated flight/proputsion control (IFPC) system Modified rough field landing gear An advanced pilot/vehicle interface (PVI) system which includes an on-board landing guidance display system