CHAPTER 2
CANOPY SYSTEMS
Terminal Objective: Upon completion of this chapter, you will be able to
identify the types of canopy systems; recognize cartridge and cartridge-activated
devices (CAD), service life, and expiration dates; identify CAD maintenance
policy; and identify the reason for the ordnance certification program.
The canopy on modern high-performance air-
craft serves several purposes. It protects the crew,
provides enhanced visibility, and serves as an
avenue of escape in case of emergency.
The canopy system includes the canopy itself,
plus all the components used in opening and
closing the canopy for normal entrance and exit,
as well as those used in jettisoning the canopy
during an emergency. Inspection and maintenance
of canopy actuating systems are important
responsibilities of the AME.
Three types of canopies are present on naval
aircraft. Two types of canopies—the clamshell
type and the sliding type—are commonly used on
naval aircraft. The clamshell type used on the F-14
aircraft is hinged aft and opens at the forward
end like a clamshell. The sliding type used on the
A-6 aircraft rests on tracks on the fuselage and
opens and closes by a sliding action. Figure 2-1
illustrates these two types of canopies. A third
canopy type, the frangible canopy, is less
common, is used on the S-3 aircraft, and has
many unique features. All three types will be
presented in this chapter.
Aircraft manufacturers have designed various
methods of actuating the canopy. Normal
opening and closing may be accomplished
pneumatically (compressed air), electrically,
manually, or hydraulically. Emergency opening
(jettisoning) is done pneumatically or explosively.
In most instances, more than one method is
provided for normal opening and closing of the
canopy; thus, if one system fails, the other may
be used. The same holds true for jettisoning the
canopy.
CLAMSHELL CANOPY SYSTEM
Learning Objective: Identify the types of
canopy systems and their purpose;
recognize the function, operation, and
purpose of the components in the F-14 air-
craft canopy system.
The clamshell canopy is a transparent cockpit
enclosure consisting of two acrylic panels in a
metal frame. During normal operation, a
Figure 2-1.—Types of canopies. (A) clamshell (B) sliding.
2-1
