Abstract: An example computer-implemented method of assessing damage to a structure includes receiving information of damage to the structure, and identifying a damage type for the damage. Following, the damage type and the information is compared with a first reference having allowable damage limits of the structure for that damage type, a second reference having damage repair information and associated damage repair processes, and a database having historical repair information for the damage type. Based on the damage type and the information indicating that the damage is outside the allowable damage limits described in the first reference and also does not have any associated damage repair process described in the second reference and the database does not include historical repair information for the damage type, expanded repair information is provided for a repair solution based on a material type and loading of the structure.

Abstract: An example computer-implemented method of assessing damage to a structure includes receiving information of damage to the structure, and identifying a damage type for the damage. Following, the damage type and the information is compared with a first reference having allowable damage limits of the structure for that damage type, a second reference having damage repair information and associated damage repair processes, and a database having historical repair information for the damage type. Based on the damage type and the information indicating that the damage is outside the allowable damage limits described in the first reference and also does not have any associated damage repair process described in the second reference and the database does not include historical repair information for the damage type, expanded repair information is provided for a repair solution based on a material type and loading of the structure.

Abstract: A fuel cap is disclosed that contains a flexible hemispherical closure member which is substantially compressible and resilient with a form approximating half of a sphere. The circular face of the hemispherical sealing member is coupled to the underside of the fuel cap. Sealing of the fuel tank is obtained where the flexible member contacts the inner surface of the filler neck. The flexible sealing member includes a section of rigid tubing aligned coaxially to the axis of the fuel cap to serve as a vent tube for safety. The vent tube penetrates the flexible sealing member, and the upper portion of the vent tube penetrates the top portion of the cap. Inset into the cap top portion and covering the end of the tube section is a meltout plug. The cap may alternately include a compression washer mounted to the end of the vent tubing, for use with filler necks where the inside circumference contains a ridge.

Abstract: A fast line maintenance repair process for damaged composite structures includes the application of a pre-cured patch that uses a quick curing paste adhesive to bond the patch to the structure. The adhesive is cured at relatively low elevated temperatures provided by a chemical heat pack. The low temperature cure eliminates the need to dry out the part and permits the application of the repair in a hazardous environment. In a typical commercial airline application, airline maintenance personnel can install the repair at the flight gate. The repair is intended to restore the structure to a desired load capability in approximately one hour. The repair can be removed if need be with less overall damage than would occur upon removal of typical mechanically fastened repairs. All or some of the repair materials and tools can be provided in a portable kit.

Abstract: An improved fuel cap and filler tube assembly for a fuel tank is provided. A spring-biased resilient and compressible closure member in the fuel cap seats inside an inlet opening of the filler tube when the fuel cap is secured to the filler tube. The filler tube includes an anti-siphon elbow.

Abstract: A fuel cap and filler tube combination has a cap having a top and a circumferential skirt extending down from the top. The cap has a plurality of recesses in an interior section of the cap along the circumferential skirt. A filler tube having a first and second opening is provided. A channeling is in fluid communication with the first and second opening to allow a fluid to enter the first opening and exit the filler tube via the second opening. The filler tube has a plurality of protrusions equal in number to the plurality of recesses. The protrusions mate with the recesses to secure the cap to the filler tube. A ring member is coupled to an outer circumference of the filler tube at an upper end near the first opening. The ring member is made of a strong and resilient material. A pressure plate assembly is coupled to an under side of the cap. The pressure plate assembly exerts a downward pressure to cover the first opening when the cap is secured to the filler tube.