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The paper is devoted to further extension and development of numerical approach aimed at simulation of riveting process during aircraft assembly (see [1,2,3,4]). Previous research has shown that developed methodology provides reliable results if the rigid motion of bodies being assembled is forbidden. However, some small parts in the airframe assemblies are not supported prior to the junction and can freely move as a rigid body. This fact introduces additional difficulties when solving corresponding contact problem. The paper is devoted to description and analysis of two different modeling approaches that allow taking unsupported parts into consideration when simulating airframe assembly process.

To perform a complete aircraft certification plan, civil aviation test centres use specific flight test installations and ground test means. In this scope tests specialists operate ground test means which have a generic name Laboratory Tests Means (LTM) to validate aircraft functions. Today these functions are becoming more and more complex, moreover certification deadlines and tests campaign costs are becoming increasingly challenging and demand LTM use optimization. In this context current LTM development approach is no longer suitable to cover these new constraints. Currently LTMs start to be designed when testing strategy for a new aircraft is defined and design is quite specific. Drawbacks of such an approach are: tunnel effect for LTM development, no simple sharing of testing resources, LTM reuse is not easy, LTM upgrade requires re-engineering and many LTMs have to be maintained even if only partially used.

From a past perspective, System Engineering was able to control the product data accuracy with respect to its requirements and towards product certification and delivery avoiding operational disruptions in the development lifecycle. But we usually do it by increasing the complexity of the product data management and administration what makes heavier the product integration. The trends indicate that the product complexity is intensifying and that the increasing load rate of changes will create serious efficiency disruptions if we persevere with today System Engineering approaches. New System Engineering paradigm is then proposed. It conducts to an innovative management of product identification and business integration.

The smartphone in your pocket, the tablet you use to browse the web, the safety systems in your automobile: they all benefit from fast-evolving computer and electronic component technology. These components are lighter, hold more data, and can perform increasingly complex tasks. This electronic evolution has had an impact in the aviation industry as well. The electronic components used in today's engines can do more than ever before, but the need to replace older components has introduced some added complexity. Until now. The problem is obsolescence. Driven by an ever-demanding consumer market, electrical components - including those used for aircraft engines - are evolving faster than ever. Engine components installed just a few years ago are no longer being made. This means engine manufacturers need to install new models when replacing these older models or when building new engines.