Design and Development of a Test Rig for the High Frequency Testing of RollingSleeve Airsprings

摘要

AMRL's F/A-18 IFOSTP fatigue test has introduced several new concepts in thefield of aircraft structural testing. One of the innovations has been the development of the pneumatic actuator or 'rolling sleeve' airspring for the application of aircraft manoeuvre loads. These airsprings have been subjected to several preliminary acceptance test phases, one of which simulated the effects of high frequency buffet loads. This report details the design and implementation of the test rig developed to conduct this type of testing.