Re-configurable supporting structures for aircraft industry

Abstract

Aircraft industry is continuously seeking new technologies due to the competitive market and high demand. During maintenance and manufacturing practices, dedicated supporting structures are used to handle large parts of the aircraft. Manufacturing of a supporting structure is expensive and it requires longer lead time along with skilled work force. This research investigates the current methods used in supporting structures for aircraft assembly and maintenance purposes. Novel conceptual design models for different reconfigurable supporting structures are developed using 3D CAD software. The conceptual models are designed using standard parts which are readily available in the market. Each conceptual model is compared and contrasted according to their strengths and weaknesses. The most reliable conceptual models are identified by the easiness of assembling and disassembling in a shorter period of time. Furthermore, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is used for further analyse the stress distribution, deformation and buckling tendency of proposed conceptual designs. Finally the safest and durable conceptual design is manufactured using widely available manufacturing processes