NASA 1996 SBIR Phase I

PROJECT TITLE : Subscale X-33 RPV and Autolander

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

A subscale reusable launch vehicle (RLV) based on the X-33 design will be developed. This remotely piloted vehicle (RPV) will be used as a testbed for a series of autolander research experiments while simultaneously generating subsonic flight data on the X-33 design. In the proposed Phase I SBIR program we will design a 12 foot subscale X-33 powered by one or two SWB-3 38 lb thrust turbojet engines. We will design the fiberglass composite shell for the RPV, its internal structure, landing gear, engine support, and avionics systems. We will develop a preliminary flight test plan for the RPV, and we will simulate several alternative neural network based autolander control strategies.

This research can be directly applied to the X-33 program and related reusable launch vehicle activities while simultaneously supporting DOD requirements for advanced cruise missiles, tactical reconnaissance and manned hypersonic aircraft. By teaming with the Skunkworks on the present proposal we are ideally positioned to take advantage of these commercialization opportunities; working with LMSWÕs X-33 and hypersonic aircraft programs on advanced development activities and with their engineering and production divisions on the final product.

Carl Lewis, III
Accurate Automation Corporation
7001 Shallowford Road
Chattanooga, TN 37421

Robert M. Pap
Accurate Automation Corporation
7001 Shallowford Road
Chattanooga, TN 37421