Abstract: Methods of making a composite aircraft primary structure include selecting a compression moldable composite sheet molding compound; preparing a first and a second layup with the compression moldable composite sheet molding compound to form a first and a second 3D preform; and compression molding the first and the second 3D preforms to form a first and a second component part. Further, the first component part comprises first geometric joint features, the second component part comprises second geometric joint features, and the second geometric joint features are complementary to the first geometric joint features such that the second geometric joint features are configured to mate with the first geometric joint features. The method further includes assembling the aircraft primary structure by joining the first component part with the second component part by aligning and mating the first geometric joint features and the second geometric joint features; and securing the same.

Abstract: An aircraft wing and propulsion system includes a leading-edge device positioned at the leading edge of an aircraft wing and one or more propulsors affixed to the main body of the aircraft wing. The leading-edge device includes a moveable slat affixed to the aircraft wing with an extension mechanism such that the moveable slat is translatable between a closed position abutting a main body of the aircraft wing and an open position extended from the main body of the aircraft wing to form a gap. An associated method of operating the same during takeoff and landing includes extending the moveable slat to expose the propulsors on the aircraft wing and operating the propulsors during take-off or landing of the aircraft to provide increased power and lift for the aircraft.