Square Canopy for ACES II Ejection Seat

Performance Designs, Inc. proposes to determine the feasibility of developing a square (ram air type) canopy which will decrease impact injuries, often experienced by aircrewmen on landing, subsequent to an ejection. The square canopy developed in Phase II will be capable of surviving deployment speeds and suspended weights as specified (300 knots and 293-342 lbs.) In addition, the canopy developed will reduce the rate of descent from the current canopy (round type) in service, while conforming to the deployment modes and dimensions of the current ACES II headbox unit. The square canopy developed should not require any manipulation from the user in order to achieve the desired rate of descent (ROD) for landing.