Damping cylinders for aircraft gyroscopes

The operation of air-damping cylinders in restraining oscillation of a pendulum system is studied by experimental and analytical methods. On account of fundamental differences which are shown exist between such cylinders and other damping devices the design of cylinders follow certain dimensional require which are dictated by the dynamics of the whole oscillating system. These considerations determine the minimum size cylinder which can be used in a given application and also the piston clearance which gives maximum damping effect.