The right attitude
Article Abstract:
It was vital to develop an active suspension system for the ThrustSSC supersonic car that could withstand the variable bands of pressure to which the car may be exposed during speeding up and slowing down. Engineers have designed a system in which only the rear element is active. There are 50 pressure transducers situated along the centreline of the car underneath the fueslage, under one of the wings and over the upper surface from nose to cockpit. These are connected through on-board computers directly to the hydraulic actuator that controls the pitch of the car's nose.
Publication Name: Engineering
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0013-7782
Year: 1997
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Powering to the record
Article Abstract:
Designers working on the engines for the ThrustSSC supersonic car were well aware that there can be both advantages and disadvantages associated with using rocket engines. For this reason, it was decided to use jet engines. After some deliberation, the Rolls-Royce Spey was selected. It was necessary to give considerable attention to using two Spey engines to maximum advantage while also ensuring that the car ran in a safe and controlled way. Some modifications were required, especially in the light of concern about the thrust balance between the two engines.
Publication Name: Engineering
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0013-7782
Year: 1997
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Wheels of fortune
Article Abstract:
There were many challenges to be addressed when considering what type of wheels should be used for the ThrustSSC supersonic car. The wheel would need to carry a considerable weight, and would be subject to very high radial acceleration. Extensive research work led to the design of wheels forged from a very high specification aluminium alloy. It was also necessary to consider the components associated with the wheel assembly, including bearings.
Publication Name: Engineering
Subject: Science and technology
ISSN: 0013-7782
Year: 1997
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