Abstract
An upgraded partial-gravity generator based on the
slope-sliding method proposed in our previous work
(Nakamura and Sekimoto, 2014) was developed. This
generator consists only of a sliding rack and variable-angle
base with a low-friction surface, and the experimental rack is
launched from the bottom of the slope. During the sliding
operation, the rack experiences partial gravity in the normal
direction of the sliding surface. The time for which partial
gravity is achieved depends on the length of the slope: in the
present test, it was at most 1.0 s, which is sufficient to capture
the dynamic response of a flame to the gravity level. To check
the performance, the g-sensor signals and behavior of a flame
were analyzed. The precision achieved by this method was within 0.05G, which is quite satisfactory.
Flame-image analyses revealed the expected features of partial gravity, suggesting that the present
methodology is an effective and convenient means of realizing a partial-gravity environment.
