Thrust Vector Control Movie

In this movie, thrust vector control by secondary fluid injection is demonstrated. This demonstrates the use of very low cost approaches to to achieving substantial control authority. This technique alleviates the need for complex gimballing mechanisms on the vehicle as well as as all the required flexibility in plumbing and electrical lines. Therefore, this allows the fabrication of the majority of the engine as a single piece, dramatically reducing cost and speeding production. The motion of the hot exhaust gases to the left and right of the engine's center-line can clearly be seen, as controlled by the sequencer. A new engine test stand was created to measure side forces to allow testing of vehicle control by secondary fluid injection (SITVC). Modifications were completed, and testing was resumed in December 1995. In February 1996, tests were conducted that validated the control performance achieved with this technique. Following the first thrust vector control tests, the contract ended and engine testing stopped. However, with the new round of contracts now underway, engine tetsing at RTF resumed in August 1996

The camera is behind and a little above the engine with tanks and 'plumbing' showing to the left and right.

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