Review of smart material technologies for active parachute applications

Eric Favini; Christopher Niezrecki; Julie Chen; David Willis; Eugene Niemi; Kenneth Desabrais

doi:10.1117/12.847620

12 April 2010 Review of smart material technologies for active parachute applications

Eric Favini, Christopher Niezrecki, Julie Chen, David Willis, Eugene Niemi, Kenneth Desabrais

Proceedings Volume 7643, Active and Passive Smart Structures and Integrated Systems 2010; 76431O (2010) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.847620
Event: SPIE Smart Structures and Materials + Nondestructive Evaluation and Health Monitoring, 2010, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

The performance (drag, lift, stability, etc.) of a parachute is a function of the physical properties of the canopy fabric (such as porosity) and geometry of the canopy (such as air-vent openings). These variables typically remain constant during descent and therefore the parachute retains constant drag and lift. The ability to change these variables and the parachute drag and lift characteristics during flight will greatly widen the performance envelope of a parachute, the maneuverability, and versatility of the airdrop mission. This paper provides a literature review of existing smart material technologies in an effort to improve the performance characteristics and enhance the safety of existing parachutes and parafoils by incorporating these advanced materials into parachute systems.

Citation Download Citation

Eric Favini, Christopher Niezrecki, Julie Chen, David Willis, Eugene Niemi, and Kenneth Desabrais "Review of smart material technologies for active parachute applications", Proc. SPIE 7643, Active and Passive Smart Structures and Integrated Systems 2010, 76431O (12 April 2010); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.847620

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