I believe from my own atudies of the V-22 that it has three
main problems - First, it is both UNDERSTRENGTH and UNDERPOWERED
for the SHEAR and other inertial/torqial forces it
encounters converting from normal horizontal wing to true VTOL mode, or
vice versa; second, a principal key to the so-called "vortex ring state" which
has wrought havoc to the project relates back to the old "centrifugal vs. centripetal"
force controversy from physics and mechanics; and third, natural scientists, engineers,
and project designers have long ignored the value/utility of the tail in stabilizing
or enhancing the VTOL-like capabilities of insects and birds specia.
As currently configured the designers must either employ stronger materials that can resist the natural and
artificial forces inherent to VTOL conversion, or increase the mass, horsepower, and flyweight of the current
airframe to tolerate intensified known stresses, or do what has been occurring which is to downgrade capabilities and
flight- , and safety-standards to accomodate or "appease" POLITICIZED financial backers and POLITICIANS. What the
project really needs is to return to BASICS of flight and science, and REEVALUATE ITS MISSION. The USDOD has to realize
it is more cost-effective to have the right people doing a job than to seek subjective balance between all competing interests.
I suspect there are many in the MIC and Washington who fear the evolution to VTOL. The Marines, SPECWAR, USRDF, and the
18th ABN CORPS NEED VTOL, SO DOES OUR NEW CONCEPT OF AEROSPACE DOMINANCE AND "SKY SOLDIERS", SO LETS DO IT RIGHT!
|