A HIGH ENERGY ABSORPTION LANDING GEAR FOR VTOL AIRCRAFT 600264
Jet powered VTOL aircraft with high performance capabilities are feasible and are being developed. Because operation of these vehicles within the low speed flight regime is mandatory, if the VTOL capability is to be realized, possible operational difficulties within this zone must be investigated from a safety standpoint.
The low speed flight regime as it applies to jet powered, VTOL, high performance aircraft is presented in comparison to similar zones existing for present day rotorcraft. The safety aspects of operation within this zone are discussed and several methods of increasing the landing capability are presented.
One of the most efficient methods of increasing the minimum operating altitude within the low speed flight regime is to provide a high energy absorption, landing gear. By utilizing this device, the power failure altitude capability above the terrain can be increased to such an extent that the aircraft can operate without traversing an extreme caution zone. In this manner significant increases to the safety and reliability of the vehicle, while operating within the low speed flight regime, may be realized.
