Abstract: An installation tool and method are provided to apply a patch to a structure while controlling the porosity in the bond line. An installation tool is provided that includes a frame defining an internal cavity. The installation tool also includes a flexible membrane that divides the internal cavity into a first chamber proximate the surface and a second chamber separated from the surface by the first chamber and the flexible membrane. The flexible membrane is releasably attached to the patch such that the patch faces the surface. The frame includes first and second vacuum ports into the first and second chambers, respectively, such that pressure therewithin is separately controllable. The pressure within the first and second chambers is controlled such that the adhesive is degassed while the patch remains spaced from the surface and the flexible membrane is thereafter caused to be stretched to urge the patch toward the surface.

Abstract: Described herein is an aircraft launch system that includes a riser coupleable to an aircraft. The riser includes an actuator and a tether coupled to the actuator. The aircraft launch system further includes a sky anchor coupled to the tether. The actuator is operable to retract the tether and draw together the sky anchor and the aircraft.

Abstract: An automated apparatus for use in selectively cutting side walls of a honeycomb core is provided. The apparatus includes an end effector, a cutting tool coupled to the end effector, wherein the end effector is configured to position the cutting tool in an initial cutting position based on a schematic geometry of the honeycomb core. The automated apparatus also includes an adaptive vision system configured to direct the end effector to modify the initial cutting position based on an actual geometry of the honeycomb core acquired by the adaptive vision system.

Abstract: Systems and methods to launch an aircraft are disclosed. In one embodiment, a system to launch an aircraft comprises a launch arm comprising at least one load cell, an aircraft coupled to the launch arm, and a release mechanism in communication with the at least one load cell, wherein the release mechanism releases the aircraft when the at least one load cell indicates that a load on the launch arm is below a predetermined threshold. Other embodiments may be described.

Abstract: A non-pneumatic tire and wheel assembly incorporates a tire tread and a conventional vehicle wheel with an elastomer tire body element molded for engagement intermediate the tread and wheel. The tire body element includes multiple concentric layers with alternating spokes. A bonded multilayer cover may be employed which is received within a recess in an outer surface of the tire body element from the tire tread. A mounting plate is engaged to the cover and attached to the wheel.

Abstract: A non-pneumatic tire and wheel assembly incorporates a tire tread and a conventional vehicle wheel with an elastomer tire body element molded for engagement intermediate the tread and wheel. The tire body element includes multiple concentric layers with alternating spokes. A bonded multilayer cover may be employed which is received within a recess in an outer surface of the tire body element from the tire tread. A mounting plate is engaged to the cover and attached to the wheel.

Abstract: An apparatus for single-side, thermal shock testing of a specimen may comprise a base and thermal insulation. The base may comprise an internal cavity disposed within the base. The internal cavity may extend through a first outer surface of the base. A specimen-supporting surface may be recessed within the first outer surface for supporting a specimen within the base to substantially close the internal cavity. The thermal insulation may not substantially cover the first outer surface, but may substantially cover other outer surfaces of the base.

Abstract: A non-pneumatic tire and wheel assembly incorporates a tire tread and a conventional vehicle wheel with an elastomer tire body element molded for engagement intermediate the tread and wheel. The tire body element includes multiple concentric layers with alternating spokes. A bonded multilayer cover may be employed which is received within a recess in an outer surface of the tire body element from the tire tread. A mounting plate is engaged to the cover and attached to the wheel.