Advanced Metallic Air Vehicle Structure Program

Abstract : Three designs for a wing carrythrough structure developed in Phase Ia were further defined. Trade studies and design optimization studies were conducted to minimize cost and weight while meeting all design requirements including fracture mechanics requirements. Planning was completed on an extensive Development Test Program which included: Material Test Plan, Component Test Plan, Manufacturing Development Plan, and NDI Development Plan. All material was ordered for this development test program and material testing was underway on 6Al-4V beta processed material at the end of the reporting period. Manufacturing and NDI development had been started with the manufacturing and inspection of two 3 ft. x 4 ft. bonded ten-ply laminated panels using .125 6Al-4V annealed titanium and 33 brazed test specimens used to optimize the brazing process using Dynabraze B braze alloys and 6Al-4V beta processed titanium. Design studies were completed on the full-scale test fixture required for static, fatigue, and damage tolerance testing of the wing carrythrough structure. The 'V' fixed wing test fixture concept allowing application of loads to the WCTS without movement of the wing was selected for detail design and manufacture. (Author)