Improved Jet Vane Thrust Vector Control System Research

This program seeks to identify, design and in the Phase II program develop an improved Jet Vane Thrust Vector Control (JVTVC) System for small diameter (6" maximum) tactical missile control applications. The sponsor wishes to improve the performance of this class of missiles by reducing vane and system weight, and improving vane thermal durability and abrasion resistance to enable it to withstand the hot alumina particle impacts from the propellant exhaust. PRI has direct experience with this type of JVTVC system and with the 18% aluminized HTPB proplellant environment required on this program. To achieve the sponsors goals for this research program, PRI will bring together the scientific expertise of three highly competent aerospace companies, PRI, FMI and Ultramet. These companies will research all aspects of the JVTVC system involving vane configuration (airfoil and fineness ratio), materials of construction, applicable coatings, heating and structural aspects, thermochemical attack (erosion/oxidation) from the 18% aluminum solid propellant exhaust, plume and radiant heating to the retract mechanisum and tail fins. Total JVTVC system mechanical design and packaging involving ARIES solid 3D CAD modeling of suitable stowable JVTVC system designs will then accomplish maximum missile performance with active JVTVC control during initial maneuvering and at end-game.