Reaction Augmentation System (RAS)

The reaction augmentation system is not supported in this software version (see "Ballistic Control System").

On the real aircraft, the reaction augmentation system (RAS) provides rate damping to aid airplane control and minimize pilot over-control when the ballistic control system is used. The RAS conserves APU and BCS H 2 0 2 supply by minimizing pilot over-control tendencies at low acceleration levels.

The RAS is incorporated in the No. 1 ballistic control system and uses the rocket motors associated with that system. Pilot control of both system No. 1 and No. 2 rocket motors is still maintained.

Whenever the ballistic control stick [8, fig. 5-4] is in neutral, the RAS gyro accelerometer assembly senses angular rate about the three axes and at a preset angular rate, a switching system is energized to fire the proper No. 1 system rocket motor to reduce the sensed angular acceleration. The RAS is automatically turned off by means of an acceleration-sensing device upon a build-up of G, which corresponds to an increase in the effectiveness of the aerodynamic controls.

The RAS can be overridden by the pilot in case of a failure.

The RAS is in a stand-by condition whenever power is applied to the airplane and is engaged by switches in the cockpit. Any combination of the three axes can be selected individually as desired. An indicator light in the cockpit shows when the RAS is in stand-by.

Electrical power for the RAS is obtained from the No. 1 primary AC bus and primary DC bus. The system is protected by circuit breakers in the equipment bay.

In this section:

Reaction Augmentation System Controls and Indicators