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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Perspective on the span-distributed-load concept for application to large cargo aircraft design

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:7328542

Results of a simplified analysis of the span-distributed-load concept (in which payload is placed within the wing structure) are presented. It is shown that a design based on these principles has a high potential for application to future large air cargo transport. Significant improvements are foreseen in increased payload fraction and productivity and in reduced fuel consumption and operating costs. A review of the efforts in the 1940's to develop all-wing aircraft shows the potential of transferring those early technological developments to current design of distributed-load aircraft. Current market analyses are projected to 1990 to show the future commercial demand for large capacity freighters. Several configuration designs which would serve different market requirements for these large freighters are discussed as are some of the pacing-technology requirements.

Research Organization:
National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Langley Station, Va. (USA). Langley Research Center
OSTI ID:
7328542
Report Number(s):
N-76-13064; NASA-TM-X-3320; L-10370
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English