UCAH Seminar Series: Structural Design Research and Development Needs for High Speed and Hypersonic Aircraft by Mr. Brian Zuchowski

The material and structural layout of high speed and low hypersonics (M5-M6) reusable vehicle platforms present aerothermodynamic challenges that require Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) or hot structure that maintain internal temperatures within tolerable limits for vehicle structure as well as all vehicle systems. Weight optimized structure for reusable systems is always of the highest priority and load carrying hot structure and/or TPS are required for the highest structural efficiency. The design of weight efficient hot structure and TPS pose significant challenges and dictate the need for thorough understanding of the overall flight environment. Thermal stress management within the overall thermal balance of the vehicle in tandem with required structural hardware joining, manufacturability, inspection, and repair techniques are some of the many difficulties that need to be fully understood and addressed.  This presentation outlines the research and development needs for this class of aircraft.