Topology Optimization of Mechanical Repairs for Aging Aircraft

Issues in mechanical repairs of aging aircraft have gained importance in recent years. As aircraft exceed or near the end of their design life, the occurrence of fatigue cracks on the fuselage or wings is inevitable. The repairs that are carried out on the damaged portion need to be performed in a timely manner to maintain safe and reliable operations and minimize aircraft downtime and resulting loss of revenue. The main objective of such repairs is to restore the structure to its original or better static strength and stiffness. Some other considerations are that the mechanical repair should be designed for adequate fatigue resistance, damage tolerance and inspectability.