Masters Theses

Date of Award

8-2001

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Aviation Systems

Major Professor

F. Collins

Committee Members

U. P. Solies, F. Stellar

Abstract

The H-46 Sea Knight has been in service since the early 1960's. At current and forecast usage rates there exists a shortfall of aircraft for the Marine medium lift and the Navy vertical replenishment missions until follow-on aircraft are procured. The Dynamic Component Upgrade Program (DCU) was developed to address life extension of the rotor and drive systems. The testing encompassed a series of engineering and mission aircraft maneuvers conducted during a varied matrix of loading conditions, density altitudes, and flight conditions. During a DCU survey flight data point of sixty degree angle of bank, right level turn, CH-46E bureau number 153355 experienced a rapid excursion beyond peak Cruise Guide Indicator limit. During the recovery sequence, the aircraft experienced a pitch oscillation episode that resulted in exceeding peak static and oscillatory limits on various components in addition to aircraft damage. This thesis surveys pertinent literature to give the reader a basis for understanding the phenomena experienced in flight. It addresses flight test safety aspects and risk reduction for integrated test programs, test methodologies, special concerns for mature platforms, lessons learned, and real time analysis tools used during this flight test. In addition, test results are examined in light of current aircraft usage and configuration to fully understand the ramifications of the test results. The recommendations advocated by this investigation conform to accepted human factor and ergonomic practice, incorporate ideas validated by independent research, and show the utility of this approach to enhance mature aircraft designs increasing safety, reliability, and service life in a cost effective manner.

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