Applied Load Factors in Bumpy Air: A Preliminary Study in the Light of the Meteorological Data at Present Available

Abstract

FROM the standpoint of the structural design of transport or “non‐acrobatic” aeroplanes, which never need be subjected to manoeuvres more severe than the very mild turns, etc., required to achieve a given destination, the “bumps” experienced in flying through “rough” air are of considerable importance, since they give rise to the structural loads for which the wings should be designed. In the past, practically no quantitative information on the structure of the atmosphere in its relations to applied loads on the aeroplane has existed. To supply this deficiency, the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics is conducting an investigation of the accelerations obtained in flight through rough air on a number of transport aeroplanes flying regular scheduled trips. Only a small amount of information has been obtained to date. Enough has been accumulated, however, to throw considerable light on the subject of applied load factors in rough air. With the object of presenting this information this note has been prepared.

Citation

Rhode, R.V. and Lundquist, E.E. (1931), "Applied Load Factors in Bumpy Air: A Preliminary Study in the Light of the Meteorological Data at Present Available", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 3 No. 8, pp. 197-200. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb029436