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At least 487 records · Page 27

TU-AB-BRD-02: Failure Modes and Effects Analysis

Current quality assurance and quality management guidelines provided by various professional organizations are prescriptive in nature, focusing principally on performance characteristics of planning and delivery devices. However, published analyses of events in radiation therapy show that most events are often caused by flaws in clinical processes rather than by device failures. This suggests the need for the development of a quality management program that is based on integrated approaches to process and equipment quality assurance. Industrial engineers have developed various risk assessment tools that are used to identify and eliminate potential failures from a system or a process before a failure impacts a customer. These tools include, but are not limited to, process mapping, failure modes and effects analysis, fault tree analysis. Task Group 100 of the American Association of Physicists in Medicine has developed these tools and used them to formulate an example risk-based quality management program for intensity-modulated radiotherapy. This is a prospective risk assessment approach that analyzes potential error pathways inherent in a clinical process and then ranks them according to relative risk, typically before implementation, followed by the design of a new process or modification of the existing process. Appropriate controls are then put in place to ensure that failures are less likely to occur and, if they do, they will more likely be detected before they propagate through the process, compromising treatment outcome and causing harm to the patient. Such a prospective approach forms the basis of the work of Task Group 100 that has recently been approved by the AAPM. This session will be devoted to a discussion of these tools and practical examples of how these tools can be used in a given radiotherapy clinic to develop a risk based quality management program. Learning Objectives: Learn how to design a process map for a radiotherapy process Learn how to perform failure modes and effects analysis analysis for a given process Learn what fault trees are all about Learn how to design a quality management program based upon the information obtained from process mapping, failure modes and effects analysis and fault tree analysis. Dunscombe: Director, TreatSafely, LLC and Center for the Assessment of Radiological Sciences; Consultant to IAEA and Varian Thomadsen: President, Center for the Assessment of Radiological Sciences Palta: Vice President of the Center for the Assessment of Radiological Sciences.

60 APPLIED LIFE SCIENCES↗

Pyomo.GDP: an ecosystem for logic based modeling and optimization development

We present three core principles for engineering-oriented integrated modeling and optimization tool sets—intuitive modeling contexts, systematic computer-aided reformulations, and flexible solution strategies—and describe how new developments in Pyomo.GDP for Generalized Disjunctive Programming (GDP) advance this vision. We describe a new logical expression system implementation for Pyomo.GDP allowing for a more intuitive description of logical propositions. The logical expression system supports automated reformulation of these logical constraints to linear constraints. We also describe two new logic-based global optimization solver implementations built on Pyomo.GDP that exploit logical structure to avoid “zero-flow” numerical difficulties that arise in nonlinear network design problems when nodes or streams disappear. These new solvers also demonstrate the capability to link to external libraries for expanded functionality within an integrated implementation. We present these new solvers in the context of a flexible array of solution paths available to GDP models. Finally, we present results on a new library of GDP models demonstrating the value of multiple solution approaches.

42 ENGINEERING↗

SRMS History, Evolution and Lessons Learned

Early in the development of the Space Shuttle, it became clear that NASA needed a method of deploying and retrieving payloads from the payload bay. The Shuttle Remote Manipulator System (SRMS) was developed to fill this need. The 50 foot long robotic arm is an anthropomorphic design consisting of three electromechanical joints, six degrees of freedom, and two boom segments. Its composite boom construction provided a light weight solution needed for space operations. Additionally, a method of capturing payloads with the arm was required and a unique End Effector was developed using an electromechanical snare mechanism. The SRMS is operated using a Displays and Controls Panel and hand controllers located within the aft crew compartment of the shuttle. Although the SRMS was originally conceived to deploy and retrieve payloads, its generic capabilities allowed it to perform many other functions not originally conceived of. Over the years it has been used for deploying and retrieving constrained and free flying payloads, maneuvering and supporting EVA astronauts, satellite repair, International Space Station construction, and as a viewing aid for on-orbit International Space Station operations. After the Columbia accident, a robotically compatible Orbiter Boom Sensor System (OBSS) was developed and used in conjunction with the SRMS to scan the Thermal Protection System (TPS) of the shuttle. These scans ensure there is not a breach of the TPS prior to shuttle re-entry. Ground operations and pre mission simulation, analysis and planning played a major role in the success of the SRMS program. A Systems Engineering Simulator (SES) was developed to provide a utility complimentary to open loop engineering simulations. This system provided a closed-loop real-time pilot-driven simulation giving visual feedback, display and control panel interaction, and integration with other vehicle systems, such as GN&C. It has been useful for many more applications than traditional training. Evolution of the simulations, guided by the Math Model Working Group, showed the utility of input from multiple modeling groups with a structured forum for discussion.There were many unique development challenges in the areas of hardware, software, certification, modeling and simulation. Over the years, upgrades and enhancements were implemented to increase the capability, performance and safety of the SRMS. The history and evolution of the SRMS program provided many lessons learned that can be used for future space robotic systems.

Jorgensen, Glenn↗

A knowledge-based system design/information tool for aircraft flight control systems

Research aircraft have become increasingly dependent on advanced electronic control systems to accomplish program goals. These aircraft are integrating multiple disciplines to improve performance and satisfy research objective. This integration is being accomplished through electronic control systems. Systems design methods and information management have become essential to program success. The primary objective of the system design/information tool for aircraft flight control is to help transfer flight control system design knowledge to the flight test community. By providing all of the design information and covering multiple disciplines in a structured, graphical manner, flight control systems can more easily be understood by the test engineers. This will provide the engineers with the information needed to thoroughly ground test the system and thereby reduce the likelihood of serious design errors surfacing in flight. The secondary object is to apply structured design techniques to all of the design domains. By using the techniques in the top level system design down through the detailed hardware and software designs, it is hoped that fewer design anomalies will result. The flight test experiences are reviewed of three highly complex, integrated aircraft programs: the X-29 forward swept wing; the advanced fighter technology integration (AFTI) F-16; and the highly maneuverable aircraft technology (HiMAT) program. Significant operating technologies, and the design errors which cause them, is examined to help identify what functions a system design/informatin tool should provide to assist designers in avoiding errors.

Mackall, Dale A.↗

Power Quality and Reliability Project

One area where universities and industry can link is in the area of power systems reliability and quality - key concepts in the commercial, industrial and public sector engineering environments. Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) has established a collaborative relationship with the University of'Texas at Arlington (UTA), NASA/Johnson Space Center (JSC), and EP&C Engineering and Technology Group (EP&C) a small disadvantage business that specializes in power quality and engineering services. The primary goal of this collaboration is to facilitate the development and implementation of a Strategic Integrated power/Systems Reliability and Curriculum Enhancement Program. The objectives of first phase of this work are: (a) to develop a course in power quality and reliability, (b) to use the campus of Prairie View A&M University as a laboratory for the study of systems reliability and quality issues, (c) to provide students with NASA/EPC shadowing and Internship experience. In this work, a course, titled "Reliability Analysis of Electrical Facilities" was developed and taught for two semesters. About thirty seven has benefited directly from this course. A laboratory accompanying the course was also developed. Four facilities at Prairie View A&M University were surveyed. Some tests that were performed are (i) earth-ground testing, (ii) voltage, amperage and harmonics of various panels in the buildings, (iii) checking the wire sizes to see if they were the right size for the load that they were carrying, (iv) vibration tests to test the status of the engines or chillers and water pumps, (v) infrared testing to the test arcing or misfiring of electrical or mechanical systems.

Attia, John O.↗

Orion FSW V and V and Kedalion Engineering Lab Insight

NASA, along with its prime Orion contractor and its subcontractor s are adapting an avionics system paradigm borrowed from the manned commercial aircraft industry for use in manned space flight systems. Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA) techniques have been proven as a robust avionics solution for manned commercial aircraft (B737/777/787, MD 10/90). This presentation will outline current approaches to adapt IMA, along with its heritage FSW V&V paradigms, into NASA's manned space flight program for Orion. NASA's Kedalion engineering analysis lab is on the forefront of validating many of these contemporary IMA based techniques. Kedalion has already validated many of the proposed Orion FSW V&V paradigms using Orion's precursory Flight Test Article (FTA) Pad Abort 1 (PA-1) program. The Kedalion lab will evolve its architectures, tools, and techniques in parallel with the evolving Orion program.

Mangieri, Mark L.↗

Remote Sensing System (Engineering Change Proposal (ECP) 2)

The primary technical objective of this CRADA was for Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) and Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, acting through Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems (NGAS), to collaborate, as needed, to inform a Remote Sensing System (RSS) development, led by the NGAS CRADA partner, through its System Design Review (SDR) and subsequent Program Design Review (PDR) milestones. More specifically, tasks and deliverables involved SNL and NGAS collaborating in seven broad areas: System Engineering, System Modeling and Simulation, System and Component Design, Assessment and Implementation, System Integration and Testing, Data Path Design and Engineering and Collection Segment Processing Engineering and Implementation. The collaboration between SNL and NGAS has resulted in a benefit to both organizations, and the public/taxpayers, by ensuring that legacy knowledge is not lost to future developments and will be incorporated into ongoing and future U.S. sensor systems.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗

Infusing Stretch Goal Requirements into the Constellation Program

In 2004, the Vision for Space Exploration (VSE) was announced by the United States President's Administration in an effort to explore space and to extend a human presence across our solar system. Subsequently, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) established the Exploration Systems Mission Directorate (ESMD) to develop a constellation of new capabilities, supporting technologies, and foundational research that allows for the sustained and affordable exploration of space. Then, ESMD specified the primary mission for the Constellation Program to carry out a series of human expeditions, ranging from Low Earth Orbit (LEO) to the surface of Moon, Mars, and beyond for the purposes of conducting human exploration of space. Thus, the Constellation Program was established at the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center (JSC) to manage the development of the flight and ground infrastructure and systems that can enable continued and extended human access to space. Constellation Program's "Design Objectives" call for an early attention to the program's life cycle costs management through the Program's Need, Goals, and Objectives (NGO) document, which provides the vision, scope, and key areas of focus for the Program. One general policy of the Constellation Program, found in the Constellation Architecture Requirements Document (CARD), states: "A sustainable program hinges on how effectively total life cycle costs are managed. Developmental costs are a key consideration, but total life cycle costs related to the production, processing, and operation of the entire architecture must be accounted for in design decisions sufficiently to ensure future resources are available for ever more ambitious missions into the solar system....It is the intent of the Constellation Program to aggressively manage this aspect of the program using the design policies and simplicity." To respond to the Program's strong desire to manage the program life cycle costs, special efforts were established to identify operability requirements to influence flight vehicle and ground infrastructure design in order to impact the life cycle operations costs, and stretch goal requirements were introduced to the Program. This paper will describe how these stretch goal requirements were identified, developed, refined, matured, approved, and infused into the CARD. The paper will also document several challenges encountered when infusing the stretch goal requirements into the Constellation Program.

Operability↗

Future Lunar Surface Network Study: Final Project Report-Unlimited Data Rights

Nokia of America Corporation (Nokia) powered by the research and innovation of Nokia Bell Labs, is honored to have been asked by NASA to conduct a Systems Engineering and Integration (SE&I) study to evaluate an Initial Operating Capability (IOC) for a 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP)-based future lunar surface communication network for the Artemis Program. In particular, the SE&I study has focused on developing an architecture and a 3GPP-based network solution that meets the requirements of the Artemis V mission and at the same time can be evolved and expanded to meet the needs and requirements of future missions in the Moon to Mars program. Nokia strongly believes that 3GPP-based communications and networking solutions present the most effective and future-proof technological path for advanced lunar surface communications (and beyond) for the next decades. 3GPP technologies (whether 4G, 5G or 6G in the future) have revolutionized voice, video, and data transmissions on Earth in consumer, enterprise, and industrial applications, and continue to enable significant gains in productivity, efficiency, and safety. The same benefits can be harnessed for space missions and the future lunar economy including, but not limited to the Artemis program. 3GPP technologies will revolutionize lunar surface communications by increasing data-rates, reducing latency, and providing critical voice, video and data communication capabilities across large surface areas while meeting the stringent reliability requirements of human-rated space flight missions.

Nokia Bell Labs↗

Multidisciplinary Design Technology Development: A Comparative Investigation of Integrated Aerospace Vehicle Design Tools

This research effort is a joint program between the Departments of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering and the Computer Science and Engineering Department at the University of Notre Dame. The purpose of the project was to develop a framework and systematic methodology to facilitate the application of Multidisciplinary Design Optimization (MDO) to a diverse class of system design problems. For all practical aerospace systems, the design of a systems is a complex sequence of events which integrates the activities of a variety of discipline "experts" and their associated "tools". The development, archiving and exchange of information between these individual experts is central to the design task and it is this information which provides the basis for these experts to make coordinated design decisions (i.e., compromises and trade-offs) - resulting in the final product design. Grant efforts focused on developing and evaluating frameworks for effective design coordination within a MDO environment. Central to these research efforts was the concept that the individual discipline "expert", using the most appropriate "tools" available and the most complete description of the system should be empowered to have the greatest impact on the design decisions and final design. This means that the overall process must be highly interactive and efficiently conducted if the resulting design is to be developed in a manner consistent with cost and time requirements. The methods developed as part of this research effort include; extensions to a sensitivity based Concurrent Subspace Optimization (CSSO) NMO algorithm; the development of a neural network response surface based CSSO-MDO algorithm; and the integration of distributed computing and process scheduling into the MDO environment. This report overviews research efforts in each of these focus. A complete bibliography of research produced with support of this grant is attached.

Renaud, John E.↗

Space station structures and dynamics test program

The design, construction, and operation of a low-Earth orbit space station poses unique challenges for development and implementation of new technology. The technology arises from the special requirement that the station be built and constructed to function in a weightless environment, where static loads are minimal and secondary to system dynamics and control problems. One specific challenge confronting NASA is the development of a dynamics test program for: (1) defining space station design requirements, and (2) identifying the characterizing phenomena affecting the station's design and development. A general definition of the space station dynamic test program, as proposed by MSFC, forms the subject of this report. The test proposal is a comprehensive structural dynamics program to be launched in support of the space station. The test program will help to define the key issues and/or problems inherent to large space structure analysis, design, and testing. Development of a parametric data base and verification of the math models and analytical analysis tools necessary for engineering support of the station's design, construction, and operation provide the impetus for the dynamics test program. The philosophy is to integrate dynamics into the design phase through extensive ground testing and analytical ground simulations of generic systems, prototype elements, and subassemblies. On-orbit testing of the station will also be used to define its capability.

Moore, Carleton J.↗

Architectural Framework for Conceptualizing Exploration Class Medical Operations

Currently, discrete projects within NASA’s Human Research Program (HRP) take aim at providing future exploration missions with the capabilities necessary to operate within a progressively Earth-independent operative environment. Realizing an entire ecosystem that can accomplish these goals requires a clear visualization on how each project contributes to the overall objectives of Human Health and Performance (HH&P) in that context. The Exploration Medical Capability (ExMC) Element has developed an architectural framework for exploration class medical operations by utilizing a systems engineering approach using model-based systems engineering (MBSE). This model, a System of Systems Architecture (SoSA), captures a means of integrating various independent but related efforts into a comprehensive view associated with HRP’s goal of providing progressively Earth-Independent Medical Operations (EIMO). This level of visibility is realized by identifying interfaces between development efforts and existing programs that contribute to the overall mission of EIMO even if those extend past the traditional boundary of HRP. Potential interfaces that are considered important when constructing an architecture include program/project Needs, Goals, and Objectives (NGOs), capabilities, envisioned use cases/scenarios, and system/subsystem structure. This presentation will focus on the processes that were used to generate the SoSA along with a means to realize its utility amongst other MBSE products from ExMC. Evaluation of the best architecture moving forward can then be achieved that promotes cohesion between various functional areas of HH&P. Additionally, the SoSA is developed with a long-term vision for the dynamic integration of novel technological developments that may be implemented in the future. The SoSA is intended to enable Stakeholders the ability to view the broader interconnections that exist and begin to create avenues of communication between various efforts. The benefits of a SoSA provide an essential step towards addressing the unique challenges of attaining the goals of broader exploration class medical missions of the future.

Systems engineering↗

Innovative Hot Lab Concept for Advanced D and D Application - 19175

Hot Labs are used in the nuclear industry for various purposes: maintenance of nuclear reactor, sampling and testing of fuel, inspection activities and decommissioning. Despite their vast use, their current designs and operations do not meet entirely today's needs and requirements of the operations nor tomorrow's. This paper will give an overview of the research and investigations performed around Hot Cells design and concept in order to integrate new operability modes and functions. The overall idea is to bring modularity, flexibility and adaptability to the Hot Lab nuclear industry. Taking the key principles of Model Based System Engineering, an interoperable data model, the most advanced digital technologies (Building Information Modelling - BIM, Virtual Reality / Augmented Reality, Artificial Intelligence), and looking at all the life-cycle of such a facility, a concept design of a new type of Hot Lab has been developed. Four mains aspects are implemented during this study: Implement the principles of the Industry 4.0; use modular and flexible solutions; explore the concept of in service maintenance and predictive maintenance; optimise the decommissioning and dismantling process by taking into account the entire life-cycle of the facility. The design was developed as a case study taking several assumptions to adapt to any project. The design developed demonstrates that modularity and flexibility can be brought in without compromising the core safety functions of such a facility. This Hot Lab concept brings the current Hot Lab to the next level as the design has been adapted to meet the current operational needs, implement novel ideas and consider its entire life-cycle. This paper will demonstrate how decommissioning and dismantling operations can become more efficient and safer with such a concept. In addition, the Model Based System Engineering approach used from the beginning of the design phase allows to have an optimum architecture during its entire lifetime. It also allowed to flag new topics to be further developed for the benefit of the nuclear industry as a whole. A first example would be the development of the Control System using digital tools and artificial intelligence to run remotely controlled equipment inside the Hot Lab. Assystem is an international engineering group. As a key participant in the nuclear industry for over 50 years, the Group supports its clients in managing their capital expenditure throughout their asset life-cycles. Assystem can offer support in project management, design, digital engineering, industrial control systems, security and safety and industrial digitalisation. Assystem's Imagine program is an internal program intending to serve as an incubator for the development of innovations. The Innovative Hot Lab project integrates one of the four innovation projects Assystem choose to develop and invest in. (authors)

12 MANAGEMENT OF RADIOACTIVE AND NON-RADIOACTIVE W↗

Architectural Framework for Conceptualizing Exploration Class Medical Operations

Currently, discrete projects within NASA’s Human Research Program (HRP) take aim at providing future exploration missions with the capabilities necessary to operate within a progressively Earth-independent operative environment. Realizing an entire ecosystem that can accomplish these goals requires a clear visualization on how each project contributes to the overall objectives of Human Health and Performance (HH&P) in that context. The Exploration Medical Capability (ExMC) Element has developed an architectural framework for exploration class medical operations by utilizing a systems engineering approach using model-based systems engineering (MBSE). This model, a System of Systems Architecture (SoSA), captures a means of integrating various independent but related efforts into a comprehensive view associated with HRP’s goal of providing progressively Earth-Independent Medical Operations (EIMO). This level of visibility is realized by identifying interfaces between development efforts and existing programs that contribute to the overall mission of EIMO even if those extend past the traditional boundary of HRP. Potential interfaces that are considered important when constructing an architecture include program/project Needs, Goals, and Objectives (NGOs), capabilities, envisioned use cases/scenarios, and system/subsystem structure. This presentation will focus on the processes that were used to generate the SoSA along with a means to realize its utility amongst other MBSE products from ExMC. Evaluation of the best architecture moving forward can then be achieved that promotes cohesion between various functional areas of HH&P. Additionally, the SoSA is developed with a long-term vision for the dynamic integration of novel technological developments that may be implemented in the future. The SoSA is intended to enable Stakeholders the ability to view the broader interconnections that exist and begin to create avenues of communication between various efforts. The benefits of a SoSA provide an essential step towards addressing the unique challenges of attaining the goals of broader exploration class medical missions of the future.

Systems engineering↗

Liquid Rocket Booster (LRB) for the Space Transportation System (STS) systems study. Volume 1: Executive summary

The feasibility of replacing the Space Transportation System (STS) Solid Rocket Boosters (SRBs) with Liquid Rocket Boosters (LRBs) was studied. Feasibility required acceptable technical risk, program costs, and a program plan which supports STS requirements. Three major goals were identified to direct booster design and operation: increased STS safety and reliability; STS/LRB integration with minimum impact; and increased STS performance. Two booster engine designs were studied. The first engine design was a turbopump-fed engine with state-of-the-art design, and the second was a pressure-fed engine which might provide a lower cost alternative to the pump-fed concept. Both booster concepts were carried through to completion of conceptual design and all system impacts and program costs were identified. Applications for LRB use in the Advanced Launch System (ALS) program were studied using the pump-fed LRB baseline concept and variations on the baseline concept. Support for the Pressure-Fed Booster Test Bed (PFBTB) included test program planning and costs and technical support.

Source record↗

Hybrid Power Management Program Evaluated Ultracapacitors for the Next Generation Launch Transportation Project

The NASA Glenn Research Center initiated baseline testing of ultracapacitors to obtain empirical data in determining the feasibility of using ultracapacitors for the Next Generation Launch Transportation (NGLT) Project. There are large transient loads associated with NGLT that require a very large primary energy source or an energy storage system. The primary power source used for this test was a proton-exchange-membrane (PEM) fuel cell. The energy storage system can consist of batteries, flywheels, or ultracapacitors. Ultracapacitors were used for these tests. NASA Glenn has a wealth of experience in ultracapacitor technology through the Hybrid Power Management (HPM) Program, which the Avionics, Power and Communications Branch of Glenn s Engineering Development Division initiated for the Technology Transfer and Partnership Office. HPM is the innovative integration of diverse, state-ofthe- art power devices in optimal configurations for space and terrestrial applications. The appropriate application and control of the various advanced power devices (such as ultracapacitors and fuel cells) significantly improves overall system performance and efficiency. HPM has extremely wide potential. Applications include power generation, transportation systems, biotechnology systems, and space power systems. HPM has the potential to significantly alleviate global energy concerns, improve the environment, and stimulate the economy.

Eichenberg, Dennis J.↗

Risk-Based Probabilistic Approach to Aeropropulsion System Assessment

In an era of shrinking development budgets and resources, where there is also an emphasis on reducing the product development cycle, the role of system assessment, performed in the early stages of an engine development program, becomes very critical to the successful development of new aeropropulsion systems. A reliable system assessment not only helps to identify the best propulsion system concept among several candidates, it can also identify which technologies are worth pursuing. This is particularly important for advanced aeropropulsion technology development programs, which require an enormous amount of resources. In the current practice of deterministic, or point-design, approaches, the uncertainties of design variables are either unaccounted for or accounted for by safety factors. This could often result in an assessment with unknown and unquantifiable reliability. Consequently, it would fail to provide additional insight into the risks associated with the new technologies, which are often needed by decision makers to determine the feasibility and return-on-investment of a new aircraft engine. In this work, an alternative approach based on the probabilistic method was described for a comprehensive assessment of an aeropropulsion system. The statistical approach quantifies the design uncertainties inherent in a new aeropropulsion system and their influences on engine performance. Because of this, it enhances the reliability of a system assessment. A technical assessment of a wave-rotor-enhanced gas turbine engine was performed to demonstrate the methodology. The assessment used probability distributions to account for the uncertainties that occur in component efficiencies and flows and in mechanical design variables. The approach taken in this effort was to integrate the thermodynamic cycle analysis embedded in the computer code NEPP (NASA Engine Performance Program) and the engine weight analysis embedded in the computer code WATE (Weight Analysis of Turbine Engines) with the fast probability integration technique (FPI). FPI was developed by Southwest Research Institute under contract with the NASA Glenn Research Center. The results were plotted in the form of cumulative distribution functions and sensitivity analyses and were compared with results from the traditional deterministic approach. The comparison showed that the probabilistic approach provides a more realistic and systematic way to assess an aeropropulsion system. The current work addressed the application of the probabilistic approach to assess specific fuel consumption, engine thrust, and weight. Similarly, the approach can be used to assess other aspects of aeropropulsion system performance, such as cost, acoustic noise, and emissions. Additional information is included in the original extended abstract.

Tong, Michael T.↗

Quiet Clean Short-haul Experimental Engine (QCSEE) composite fan frame design report

An advanced composite frame which is flight-weight and integrates the functions of several structures was developed for the over the wing (OTW) engine and for the under the wing (UTW) engine. The composite material system selected as the basic material for the frame is Type AS graphite fiber in a Hercules 3501 epoxy resin matrix. The frame was analyzed using a finite element digital computer program. This program was used in an iterative fashion to arrive at practical thicknesses and ply orientations to achieve a final design that met all strength and stiffness requirements for critical conditions. Using this information, the detail design of each of the individual parts of the frame was completed and released. On the basis of these designs, the required tooling was designed to fabricate the various component parts of the frame. To verify the structural integrity of the critical joint areas, a full-scale test was conducted on the frame before engine testing. The testing of the frame established critical spring constants and subjected the frame to three critical load cases. The successful static load test was followed by 153 and 58 hours respectively of successful running on the UTW and OTW engines.

Mitchell, S. C.↗