Technical Paper
B-1 Technology Applications to Advanced Transport Design
1973-02-01
730348
Several unique design approaches have been used to configure the B-1 strategic bomber. These innovations are applicable to future advanced supersonic transport (AST) design approaches. The combined aerodynamic/structural efficiency of the B-1 is enhanced by using the blended wing/body concept. Structural mode control has been incorporated to alleviate structural motion, because the B-1 will be involved in considerable low-altitude, high-turbulence flying. Application of this system should be considered for the AST to reduce the structural penalties inherent at the high-speed portion of the flight envelope. The B-1 is the first airplane to be designed to a specified fracture mechanics requirement. Future transport designs, including future ASTs, probably will have a similar requirement to augment the present fatigue criteria. Several B-1 subsystem advancements applicable to the AST program scope are discussed.