The design of Jettisonable cockpit hoods

Abstract

In the past much trouble has been experienced in the design of jettisonable cockpit hoods and even after a considerable amount of development many hoods are not really satisfactory. In order that a successful hood jettisoning mechanism can be produced it is essential that the various problems involved should be realised at the design stage. Consideration is given in this Note to the jettisoning problems involved in the design of all types of hoods and cockpit covers. Certain basic design criteria are proposed and the various methods of meeting them are discussed. Recommendations on good design practice are given where possible. With the knowledge that is at present available the design of a satisfactory orthodox hood should present no great problems, but the more advanced designs are likely to cause some difficulty.