Helicopter Inspection Design Requirements
Abstract
Existing aircraft and presently used inspection techniques were analyzed to determine the impact of present design on the ease of inspection. Initial engineering analyses established failure modes and inspection techniques for helicopter components which contribute significantly to the inspection problem. Analysis results were supplemented by field interviews with inspectors experienced in inspection of six aircraft types (AH-1, UH-1, CH-47, CH-54, OH- 58, and OH-6). The field survey helped definitize components in each aircraft which present inspection problems. Problem areas were then reviewed and classified into categories. These categories included candidates for component or installation redesign, and changes in inspection technique or interval. Engineering analyses then explored for worthwhile solutions. This report contains the resulting specific recommendations for design approaches which offer improvements in inspection efficiency in future designs and inspection aids which warrant consideration for application to present or future designs. The MAVIS (Model for Analysis of Vehicle Inspection Systems) computer model, described in USAAMRDL Technical Report 72-35, was used to assess quantitatively the improvements in inspection efficiency available through the adoption of the study's recommendations. The modeling indicated significant reduction in maintenance man-hour requirements and improvement in aircraft availability and mission reliability.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1973
- Accession Number
- AD0769061
Entities
People
- Douglas O. Blake
- Frank E. Starses
- Fred W. Hohn