Smart Latching Attachment Surface (SLAS)

NextGen Aeronautics has teamed with Dr. Diann Brei and Dr. Jon Luntz of University of Michigan for this proposal entitled"Smart Latching Attachment Surface (SLAS),"in response to SBIR Solicitation No. AF103-003. The University of Michigan team has over twelve years of pioneering research experience in the area of smart attachments and in transitioning these to industry. The goal of this effort is to develop a low-weight, low part-count, inexpensive attachment concept which requires minimal tools for installation. Applications for this attachment structure include aircraft access panels and line replaceable unit (LRU) electronic systems, where this installation method would replace conventional fasteners. The attachment method will be capable of attaching to and detaching from a panel with articulating active geometry and with mating passive geometry, which holds with zero applied power. By the end of Phase I, NextGen will design, analyze, and fabricate a functional test attachment coupon. The basic functionality of the mechanism will be demonstrated with this article. The focus of a potential Phase II program will be to refine the design, provide a demonstration of the attachment mechanism on representative aircraft components, supported by detailed evaluation of mechanical strength, damage tolerance, and durability. BENEFIT: The Smart Latching Attachment Surface (SLAS) is a compact, inexpensive, lightweight attachment surface designed to provide a quick and easy-to-use, strong vibration-resistant means of fixing equipment such as LRU"s in place wherever the user desires.