|
|
F-18 HARV instrumentation mo
…
| Photo Date |
October 15, 1993 |
|
This unique view, looking di
…
| Photo Description |
Smoke generators show the twisting paths of wingtip vortices behind two NASA Dryden F/A-18's used in the Autonomous Formation Flight (AFF) program during flight #743. The lead aircraft, F-18 #845 (NASA Dryden's Systems Research Aircraft), piloted by Craig Bomben, is followed closely by another F-18, #847, piloted by Dick Ewers. A vortex is a spiraling current of air emanating from aircraft wingtips as they fly. By mapping the vortex pattern and using sophisticated software to put the trailing aircraft in the optimum location, the energy of the vortex could result in fuel savings for the follower aircraft of 15 percent or more. |
| Project Description |
Autonomous Formation Flight (AFF) is intended to allow an aircraft to fly in close formation over long distances using advanced positioning and controls technology. It utilizes Global Positioning System satellites and inertial navigation systems to position two or more aircraft in formation, with an accuracy of a few inches. This capability is expected to yield fuel efficiency improvements. |
| Photo Date |
November 9, 2001 |
|
This view from a NASA Dryden
…
| Photo Description |
This view from a NASA Dryden F-18 chase aircraft shows Dryden's highly modified F-15B, tail number 837, which resumed Intelligent Flight Control System (IFCS) project flights on Dec. 6, 2002. |
| Project Description |
NASA's Intelligent Flight Control System (IFCS) project, utilizing NASA Dryden's highly modified F-15B, tail number 837, focuses on development of "self-learning" neural network software for aircraft flight control computers. Such a revolutionary flight control system could enable future aircraft that sustain major system failures or combat damage to be flown to a safe, controlled landing. The current series began on Dec. 6, 2002. The F-15B formerly flew in the Advanced Control Technology for Integrated Vehicles (ACTIVE) project at Dryden from 1995 through 1999. |
| Photo Date |
December 6, 2002 |
|
|
