Usage and structural health monitoring systems in military tactical transport aircraft

Abstract

The variability of use in the military tactical transport aircraft is not always well captured in the intended use declared by the operators. On the other hand, the computers installed in the aircraft are already collecting huge amount of data that can be downloaded on ground with no additional burden. With the properly data analysis and management on ground, and by using the existing flight physics models of the aircraft or by training neuronal networks it is possible to use the data to obtain relevant information. Such as usage figures, detect potential overloads, obtain loads and stresses several times by second. Those loads and stress time histories can then use to re-calculate the fatigue and crack propagation is the same way as per certification in a cycle-by-cycle basis, then re-evaluate the maintenance to optimized it according to real use of the aircraft. Produce operational recommendations and perform prognosis analysis considering the past and intended use in the future. On the other hand, for local areas prone to accidental damage, direct sensor measurements can be used for damage monitoring.