Question about various canopy opening positions

[helmutkohl]

Something random I was thinking about
why do various aircraft have canopies that open differently? what are the pros and cons of each type?

Examples

Rafale opens on the right side
but I think other aircraft like the MiG-21 opens on the left

F-35 opens from the front

F-22 opens from the back

Su-57 slides back

 

[martinbayer]

Overall RCS considerations?

 

[aim9xray]

F-35: commonality.

The aft end of the F-35B canopy is different from the F-35A/C due to the lift fan. Placement of the hinge at the front allows a common drive mechanism (and hopefully reduced cost) across all three variants.

 

[paralay]

Probably the pilot Rafal will be able to open the cockpit hood with his hands, if necessary

 

[Manuducati]

For the Rafale, it's for ease of maintenance:

"Special attention has been paid to accessibility issues: for instance, the side- opening canopy facilitates the replacement of the ejection seat, so that two technicians can perform its removal in 10 minutes only."

Source:

The Rafale, mission ready with low operating costs

Based on our experience from the Mirage 2000, logistical support for the Rafale draws on its excellent operational availability.

www.dassault-aviation.com

Note that the forward part of the canopy can be opened, with a front mounted hinge, again for easy access to avionics.

I also read somewhere (can't remember where exactly) that the side opening allows a shorter and lighter cylinder to operate it as well.

 

[Archibald]

Dassault is pretty good (if not maniacal) related to those small but all important details. That's how they bet SNCAs into submission in the 1950's, and they great care keeping that tradition going.