KNOWLEDGE-BASED SYSTEM FOR LANDING GEAR ANALYSIS AND DESIGN

The design of skid-type landing gear for helicopter operations is a complex task requiring tradeoffs of stiffness and strength. Constraints imposed on gear geometry complicate the design optimization process. This results in a compromise to fulfill all aspects of criteria, geometry, stiffness, load factor limitations, and stress limits. Development of a knowledge-based system for landing gear analysis and design is a positive step toward improved engineering productivity and rapid design response. Creation of a central data base with both engineering and manufacturing information relieves the designer/analyst of time-consuming research for routine information. This allows more time to be spent on actual design challenges.