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Technology update
Gulfstream technology
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Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. has been adding the latest proven technologies to the Gulfstream V.
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Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. has been adding the latest proven technologies to its Gulfstream IV and V business jets so that they can remain competitive with business jets scheduled for introduction in the next couple years. The company's "technology that works" design philosophy will provide operators with higher levels of useful and useable technology that can be applied to enhance comfort and increase aircraft reliability, safety, and performance. Gulfstream engineers have used this philosophy to incorporate new technology in the cockpit, cabin, and wing.
In the cockpit, the company has installed an Enhanced Vision System (EVS) to improve safety through better visibility for the pilot (see Aerospace Engineering, December 1999). The thermal-imaging system enables pilots
to see in nearly all adverse conditions through a high-fidelity, electro-optic Honeywell
head-up display.
Cabin comfort is improved because of reduced noise and better air quality. Cabin noise is lessened through a design that places the rear-mounted engines behind the passenger cabin bulkheads while incorporating titanium mufflers, vibration isolators, and sound-absorbing insulation panels. Air quality is ensured by the fact that 100% fresh air is sent into the cabin, without compromising aircraft performance.
To develop a higher performing and simpler wing, Gulfstream engineers incorporated NASA wing codes into their wing design. The wing extends the Gulfstream V's operating envelope to allow the aircraft greater access to short airfields or airports located at higher altitudes and warmer temperatures. Improved maneuverability was achieved with the wing's design. The design enables the aircraft to routinely fly 45° bank turns at 51,000 ft. In addition, the wing maintains good low-speed handling characteristics without the need for complex leading-edge devices.
Engineers designed the wing to be less complicated providing better reliability and easier maintenance. The Gulfstream V wing features a clean leading edge and smooth trailing edge, with only two Fowler flaps and four actuators.
Gulfstream has also announced the Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) approval for its Gulfstream V aircraft. Only aircraft granted RVSM approval may operate at altitudes ranging from 31,000-39,000 ft in the North Atlantic track system.
"The Gulfstream V program completed 1999 on a high note by achieving RVSM approval," said Pres Henne, Senior Vice President for Programs at Gulfstream. "To achieve RVSM authorization, we had to demonstrate that the Gulfstream V altimetry systems were extremely accurate and reliable. We have accomplished that."
RVSM reduces the vertical separation between aircraft flying in different directions from 2000 to 1000 ft within the track system altitudes. The major benefits from RVSM include the greater availability of more fuel-efficient altitudes and routes for lower-flying airliners and business aircraft, enhanced controller flexibility, and an increased probability that a desired track or altitude will be available.
According to the company, the North Atlantic corridor is the first airspace to introduce RVSM and it will eventually include altitudes from 29,000-41,000 ft. The initial RVSM routes in the Pacific were scheduled to open in February and European airspace is expected to require RVSM from 29,000-41,000 ft by January 2002.
Frank Bokulich
Aerospace Engineering April 2000
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