Design of a single-parachute cargo delivery system that can alter its descent trajectory via mid-flight shape transformation can reduce costs and simplify cargo drops. Current systems use multiple canopies to deliver cargo to a predetermined drop zone. From twelve design concepts invented by this team, two were chosen for development and were tested through computer simulation and experiments. Developing two parallel transformation concepts has permitted the comparison of key performance parameters. In addition to the canopies, a servo-based system was designed and manufactured to initiate the transformation remotely. Drop tests from a Black Hawk helicopter at 400 feet have shown that a single-parachute cargo delivery system could be a viable alternative to the systems currently in use.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Rogan, Casey M.
• Pollock, Amanda Leigh
• Miller, Kyle Hathaway
• Moffett, Jeffrey Samuel

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-042809-151154

Advisor

• Olinger, David J.

Year

• 2009

Sponsor

• United States Army Soldier Systems Center

Date created

• 2009-04-28

Location

• Natick

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Aerospace Engineering

Rights statement

• In Copyright