Lightweight thrust vectoring panel

Abstract

A thrust vectoring panel which is a hybrid ceramic/ceramic composite consisting of three layers of lightweight materials, the anisotropic properties of which are manipulated such that the properties of the materials, i.e., the coefficient of thermal expansion, the strain energy release rate, and the tensile and flexure modules, either match or gradually transition from material to material. The three layers include a face layer which is of a high temperature capable material that can withstand temperatures within a range of 2300.degree.-25000.degree. F. for an extended period of time and a temperature as high as 28000.degree. F. for a short period of time. The middle layer simply is an insulating layer for providing adequate thermal insulation for the activator mechanism for the thrust panel. The third layer is a skeletal structure or layer which is of a lightweight material having sufficient strength to support all the integral interfaces, such as the activator mounts and the like.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.