Generalized Structural Integrity Assurance Technology: Application to Army Generic Structural Integrity Assurance Technology Program.

摘要

A generalized structural integrity technology concept is presented which defines structural integrity parameters for resistance to maximum loading and service life which must be evaluated on the basis of an integrated qualification testing and in-service program by acceptance criteria formally specified by the particular hardware system authority. A service life base line parameter is defined which characterizes the nominal behavior of a system. A service life design sufferance parameter is defined and illustrated which characterizes other than nominal conditions which are a major influence on safety. Design sufferance conditions are general and may involve damage tolerance or any other design conditions which may deviate from base line conditions. Limited duration service life unrepaired/repaired damage parameters are defined for those unique design conditions. The application of this generalized concept to an Army Generic Structural Integrity Assurance Technology Program covering tasks of design information, analyses and material characterization, design development testing, qualification testing, and life management data and life management implementation is discussed. The benefit of a formal disciplined technology program in promoting structural integrity in the arena of innovative design with emerging materials is cited. Keywords: Structural engineering; Structural mechanics; Mechanical properties; Life expectancy (service life); Life tests; Fatigue life (mechanics); Validation; Inspection. (kt)