How to use a Generic Model to Improve Part Quality and Testability

Abstract

One big challenge in aeronautics is the combination of lightweight structures and a high degree of flight safety. Highly optimized structures and extensive quality assurance within NDT methods is one possibility to address this objective. The needs of NDT in respect of testability are often not considered during the design process of a structure or a part. This can lead to high inspection costs or even the need to redesign the part. The idea of this Generic Model would be to address this issue by highlighting the requirements of NDT allowing part optimization regarding these requirements in the early design process. This article presents the two parts of this Generic Model. The static part will be describing the test situation while the functional part will show the interaction of the static elements. Beginning with a single characteristic comparison, the example will show how to evaluate the testability of a complete part within the various aspects of NDT. An example of design considerations for a carbon fiber-reinforced plastic component is presented to demonstrate the application of the Generic Model. It will be seen how an automated evaluation is possible, and based on this idea a software tool could be developed. Two examples of design considerations for a carbon fiber-reinforced plastic component is presented to demonstrate the application of the Generic Model. The goal of implementing this Generic Model will be to improve part design, reduce iterations in the design process and increase the testability of NDT.