Deployable Aerodynamic Devices for Ejection Seats

Planned next-generation ejection seats address the need for expanded egress envelopes, in part, through the addition of active attitude con propulstio systems. Such systems are complex and add significant weight to the seat. One of the factors driving this complexity is low (or negated static stability. Increased static stability early in the egress period could reduce the size and complexity required of the active attitude controls. At high airspeeds a small lifting surface can generate high maneuvering forces that can further help to expand the safe egress envelope. The proposed research will determine feasiblity and produce preliminary designs for two deployable aerodynamic devices. One is a stabilizer consisting of cruciform fins on the ends of rapid-deployment booms. The device will provide increased static stability within 100 msec of first motion. The second device is a pair of small wings that deploy from the sides of the seat and provide lift for hard upward maneuvering.