Dimensional analysis of the inflation process of parachute canopies

Citation

Kaplun, Saul (1951) Dimensional analysis of the inflation process of parachute canopies. Engineer's thesis, California Institute of Technology. http://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechTHESIS:11182010-154343424

Abstract

The possibility of an experimental approach based on dimensional analysis is considered. Dimensional analysis of the filling of a parachute tied to a fixed support is given. The physical variables of the problem are discussed, and an attempt is made to retain for subsequent analysis of all those variables for which the a priori assumption of negligibility is not warranted. The variables are reduced to dimensionless form, leading to tables of model rules which must be obeyed for various purposes. The possibility of a rigorous experimental procedure and, especially, of separating the effects of the several parameters is discussed in light of the model rules.

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