Real Time Static and Dynamic Flight External Loads Analysis

ABSTRACT: Flight testing is an inherently dangerous, but essential part of aircraft development. Aircrew safety is top priority; however, because of the nature of flight test as well as the cost to perform the testing, some risk is taken whenever the aircraft performs a test. In an effort to both increase safety as well as reduce test cost, TDA proposes to develop a system to rapidly produce aircraft external loads"predictions for the next flight test point based upon the entire set of aircraft test data from previous test points. A system that can perform this function will: (1) increase the safety of flight test because the models used for loads predictions will be updated in real-time based upon the measured response of the aircraft, and will allow the aircrew and engineers to see the latest model predictions rather than relying upon legacy predictions; (2) shorten the test program (and, thus, reduce test cost) due to a reduction in the number of incremental build-up test points; (3) provide engineering with a fully validated aircraft loads model which becomes more accurate as more test points are flown with minimal test crew interaction; and (4) offer rapid and accurate turn-around of test predictions. BENEFIT: Anticipated benefits include increased flight test safety, reduced flight test costs and schedule, more accurate flight test loads prediction, more rapid and accurate test turnaround time, and reduction in required test points. Potential commercial applications of this effort include software deployment to DoD and commercial aircraft companies"aircraft test organizations. DoD RDT & E funding requests for FY14 is $67.6B. Embedded in this cost is the time and manpower necessary to ensure flight testing is done safely and effectively. Establishing confidence in loads predictions is key to helping expedite test programs and reduce the total cost required for DoD aircraft acquisition as well as the development and test cost incurred by the aircraft manufacturers.