ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY FUSELAGE RESEARCH PROGRAMME

The Advanced Technology Fuselage (ATF) Research Programme involves the design, manufacture and test of two, 2-bay centre section fuselage structures. One has been configured using welded titanium I-section frames and carbon-skinned honeycomb sandwich panels. The other, with identical overall dimensions, employs carbon frames and carbon-skinned honeycomb sandwich panels. The engineering performance and potential of the two advanced concepts is being compared with that of a conventional structure. The programme has concentrated on acoustic, electrical/electro-magnetic compatibility (EMC), dynamic and strength investigations. This paper describes the advantages which can be gained from these types of construction in terms of weight and cost. The problems associated with the noise and EMC issues are discussed. Additionally, comment will be made on the applicability of ‘ATF’ technology to future helicopter structures, particularly in the light of the potential offered by the material developments that have occurred since the inception of this programme.