Date of Award

Summer 8-4-2025

Access Type

Thesis - Open Access

Degree Name

Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering

Department

Aerospace Engineering

Committee Chair

Alberto Walter Da Silva Mello, Jr.

Committee Chair Email

MELLOA2@erau.edu

First Committee Member

Kimberly Heinzer

First Committee Member Email

KOSOLAK@erau.edu

Second Committee Member

Sirish Namilae

Second Committee Member Email

namilaes@erau.edu

Third Committee Member

Timothy Smith

Third Committee Member Email

smitht1@erau.edu

College Dean

James W. Gregory

Abstract

This research aims to enhance the understanding and management of aerospace structural integrity. Traditional fracture control methods, such as damage tolerance analysis (DTA), assume deterministic factors, considering uncertainties inherent in material properties, inspections, and operational conditions only at the final stage by applying safety factors. This research seeks to incorporate these uncertainties throughout the analysis by integrating Monte Carlo simulation with Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics (LEFM). The objective is to investigate how varying parameters affect crack growth prediction and the effectiveness of inspection strategies. The methodology involves systematically analyzing inspection intervals, considering factors like material properties, probability of detection (POD), and other critical inputs. Cascade charts are generated to select inspection intervals that meet regulatory requirements, such as those established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The project's outcome will be a versatile code allowing for future updates and adaptations. Through this research, we anticipate enhancing aerospace structural reliability and safety.

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