Model Research of Steam Catapult Launch Process for Carrier-based Aircraft

In order to study the basic theory of steam catapult launch process for carrier-based aircraft. We developed a mathematic model of steam catapult launch process including thermodynamics model of steam catapult, the traction release device mathematical model, the statics model of tensioning, the statics model of aircraft thrust, the dynamic model of catapult force build-up with holdback and the dynamic model of power stroke. Firstly, we got a typical steam history of a launch and the variation of catapult tow force with stroke which have the same tendency with test data, further, the validity result of the way of modeling which was verified by the comparison of simulation data and test data in this article. Secondly, this article got the minimum release load of holdback bar which is consistent with the military specification, so the correctness of this model was verified again. Finally, we got some other simulation results under the specific conditions. This model which was built in this article is benefit for describing every stages of the whole catapult launch clearly. The system models can be extensional and maintained conveniently, and it can also be used to solve the problem of catapult launch under more complicated conditions.