PHYSICS OF METALS AND METAL SCIENCE (SELECTED ARTICLES)

Booz-Allen Applied R RC I C., B THESD , PPLICATION OF INFLATABLE STRUCTURES TO THE GROUND EFFECT MACHI E (GEM). Rept. for July 61-Mar 62, on GEM Structures Study. June 62, 1v. incl. illus. tables, 27 refs. (Contract DA 44-177-tc-726, Proj. 9R99-01-005-06) (TCREC TR 62-40) Unclassified report DESCRIPTORS: *Flying platforms, *Pneumatic devices, Military requirements, Logistics, Amphibious operations, Cargo, Pressure, Pneumatic systems, Effectiveness, Deformation, Failure (Mechanics), Configuration, Struc tures, Textiles, Ground effects, Design. Identifiers: LOTS, Ground effect machines.A study was made of the application of inflatable structures to the Ground Effect Machine (GEM) with particular reference to the 15-ton payload LOTS carrier mission. The scope of study was limited to the investigation of suitable inflation pressures, fabrics and bindings consistent with the structural and environmental criteria considered mandatory for this mission A review of the materials available for con truction of inflatable structures indicates those that are of most value; a similar study of inflatio systems indicates the advantages and disadvantages of several possible systems. A simple flat cross-section with round ends is chosen as the example section for the analytical development of the required inflation pressure. A preliminary design study is conducted for a 15-ton payload machine, resulting in critical bending moment values for the design. Using the geometrical characteristics of the design and the critical bending moments evaluated, the inflation pressure req ired to prevent structure wrinkling is determined. Changes in the structural geometry are investigated to determine quantitatively their effect on the required inflation pressure, and their utility for primary structure application in GEMs. (Author)