P-3B Radar Integration
Wing Installations and Bomb Bay Installations
CFD Pressure Result
CFD Turbulence Result
FEA Stress Result
FEA Deformation Result
Manufacturing at DARcorporation (Pylon)
Installation at NASA WFF
Modal Test
Load Test
First Flight
NASA WFF, University of Kansas and DARcorporation cooperated on the design, simulation, fabrication and installation of P-3B radar integration: 15 MCoRDS radars as wind installations; Accumulation, Snow, and Ku-band radars as bomb bay installations.
DARcorporation engineers actively participated in this project by doing CAD design, aerodynamic trade studies, static and dynamic structural trade studies and fabrication. DARcorporation engineers analyzed 21 aerodynamic trade study cases and 12 static and dynamic structural trade study cases.
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) cases were analyzed to check flow characteristics in the vicinity of the installation. A series of performance studies were also conducted to see the implications of the installation on drag and hence range and endurance. Turbulence and icing conditions are also inspected.
Finite element models of the fairings were developed and various extreme load cases were simulated. The attached structure experiences extreme sizing conditions dictated by the extreme Greenland weather. The attached structure is sized to not only survive the extreme load conditions by itself, but also to not introduce unacceptable additional loads to the P-3B structure. Structural stability, dynamic modes and fatigue are also inspected to ensure safe flights.
DARcorporation engineers were also involved in the fabrication and installation of the composite/metal fairings. DARcorporation personnel constructed the 10 metal pylons that hold the radar installation, constructed the forward bomb bay internal structure and helped with installation at Wallops.
The installations successfully passed limit static load test and dynamic modal test, showing no structural failure and unfavorable resonances.
The P-3B antenna assembly was test flown successfully on April 28, 2010.
NASA Blog: Operation Ice Bridge
The DARcorporation Advantage
Experience in the design, detailed analysis and building of prototypes gives DARcorporation a unique advantage over other companies, since we can go from initial design all the way through full size manufacturing. The unique tools we developed for design and analysis make DARcorporation the best choice for any new or existing aeronautical project. DARcorporation engineers can advise on what the best materials are for your design and what the best configuration is. We will work with you to design and optimize your aircraft for performance, manufacturability and cost.
Proposal & Rates
Please Contact Dr. Willem Anemaat for additional information or a detailed proposal. Your detailed proposal will include cost and calendar schedule and estimated man-hours per task. This will be provided at no cost or obligation.
Sample Projects:
- P-3B Radar Integration
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