Lockheed Martin X-56
| Lockheed Martin X-56 | |
|---|---|
 X-56 in flight (simulation) |
|
| Type: | UAV technology demonstrator |
| Design country: | |
| Manufacturer: | |
| First flight: |
July 2013 |
| Number of pieces: |
2 fuselages, 4 pairs of wings |
The Lockheed Martin X-56 is a test vehicle for the US Air Force for the investigation of active flutter suppression as part of the Multi-utility Aeroelastic Demonstration Program (MAD) . It is hoped that the findings will lead to weight savings in the wing structure of future aircraft.
construction
The configuration of the aircraft is to be similar to the usual reconnaissance drones , ie it is to have wings with a high aspect ratio. To make flight tests easier, a modular concept with exchangeable wings is provided. These should have a different rigidity depending on the design . To dampen the vibrations, ten parking spaces are provided on the trailing edge of the wing, distributed over the entire span. Due to the high risk involved in such flutter tests, an unmanned concept was chosen with which the flight tests should be carried out at low speed and altitude. In addition, the aircraft is to be equipped with a parachute that will enable it to be recovered in the event of a structural failure on the wing.
use
The first flight took place on July 26, 2013 at Edwards Air Force Base , after it was originally planned for July 2012. After the USAF has completed the tests, NASA intends to take over the aircraft and continue the test program with further, self-developed wings.
Technical specifications
| Parameter | Data |
|---|---|
| crew | 0 |
| length | 2.29 m (7.5 ft) |
| span | 8.53 m (28 ft) |
| Engine | 2 × JetCat P240 |
See also
Web links
- X-56A. In: lockheedmartin.com. Retrieved November 18, 2018 .
Individual evidence
- ^ A b Zach Rosenberg: Flutter tests drive X-56A programs. In: flightglobal.com. February 7, 2012, accessed December 6, 2016 .
- ↑ a b c Lockheed Martin X-56A (MUTT) Experimental Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) - United States. In: militaryfactory.com. Retrieved November 18, 2018 .
- ^ X-56 First Flight. In: codeonemagazine.com. July 26, 2013, accessed December 6, 2016 .
- ^ USAF, NASA aim to master wing-flex control. In: flightglobal.com. Retrieved August 13, 2013 .