P. Lequeu, Alcan Pechiney Rhenalu, Issoire, France; T. Warner, Alcan, Voreppe, France; P. Harrison, Airbus, Bristol, United Kingdom
Weight and cost reductions are the key words for any solution intended to be proposed for the structure of a new airframe. This is because the development of future aircraft will be driven mostly by the customer request of lower DOC’s, due to the high fuel prices. Figures of typical 20% reductions in both weight and cost are often reported versus current flying structures. For this purpose, an Advanced Metallic Structure Cooperation (MSC) was set-up in 2004 by Airbus with their material suppliers. A first objective was clearly identified as defining and validating possible short, medium and long-term concepts able of at least the 20%-20% figures. A second objective was also assigned to the team to deliver “on-the-shelf” advanced high performance and low cost concepts to support existing or to-be-launched programs. Presentation will highlight the key features of the wing integrated product team (IPT) work performed by Alcan as part of this MSC, with cross-contributions of the materials, design, manufacturing and costing teams. It will also be shown how a better detailed understanding of the wing design and manufacturing requirements has led to the definition of efficient metallic wing concepts, covering not only advanced alloys, but also innovative technical and costing concepts, as well as alternative joining techniques.
Summary: The presentation describes the methodology used in collaboration with Airbus to define and validate wing concepts of future airframes. Examples will illustrate the power generated by this collaborative program.
