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Investigations of Tumbling Characteristics of a 1/20-Scale Model of the Northrop N-9M AirplaneThe tumbling characteristics of a 1/20-scale model of the Northrop N-9M airplane have been determined in the Langley 20-foot free-spinning tunnel for various configurations and loading conditions of the model. The investigation included tests to determine whether recovery from a tumble could be effected by the use of parachutes. An estimation of the forces due to acceleration acting on the pilot during a tumble was made. The tests were performed at an equivalent test altitude of 15,000 feet. The results of the model tests indicate that if the airplane is stalled with its nose up and near the vertical, or if an appreciable amount of pitching rotation is imparted to the airplane as through the action of a strong gust, the airplane will either tumble or oscillate in pitch through a range of angles of the order of +/-120 deg. The normal flying controls will probably be ineffective in preventing or in terminating the tumbling motion. The results of the model tests indicate that deflection of the landing flaps full down immediately upon the initiation of pitching rotation will tend to prevent the development of a state of tumbling equilibrium. The simultaneous opening of two-7-foot diameter parachutes having drag coefficients of 0.7, one parachute attached to the rear portion of each wing tip with a towline between 10 and 30 feet long, will provide recovery from a tumble. The accelerations acting on the pilot during a tumble will be dangerous.
Document ID
20050031170
Acquisition Source
Langley Research Center
Document Type
Other - NACA Research Memorandum
Authors
MacDougall, George F., Jr. (National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics. Langley Aeronautical Lab. Langley Field, VA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 22, 2013
Publication Date
January 27, 1947
Subject Category
Aircraft Stability And Control
Report/Patent Number
NACA-RM-L6L10
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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