Composite materials technologies reduce cost of high-dollar components for maintenance training^using simulated vehicle spare parts

摘要

New composite, urethane, polymer, and fiberglass materials have made the simulation of high-dollar mechanical and Line Replaceable Unit (LRU) components possible for maintenance training device applications at a substantially reduced cost. ^Utilizing much lower cost materials and processes, complex mechanical systems such as engines and transmissions for fixed wing, helicopter, and ground vehicle systems can now be built for a fraction of the real aircraft systems' cost, thereby freeing up real components to go back into the fleet. ^The process for choosing the best materials taking into consideration the systems' operational requirements such as operational needs for training, i.e., remove and replacement tasks, electrical trouble shooting, torque specifications, hardened attachment points, fluids changes, and system inspections is presented. ^There is also a discussion of the range of materials currently being utilized in developing simulated vehicle components and the decision variables which should be considered when selecting materials. ^(Author)