A test stand nozzle mount frame was designed in which to install the components of a prototype JSF (Joint Strike Fighter) Exhaust System. This is a two dimensional, convergent/divergent, vectoring nozzle system with vertical thrust roll ducts. The mount frame simulates the aircraft with its myriad of mechanical interfaces by matching location tolerances, thermal growth, and stiffness characteristics of the aircraft. During this project, EDF worked closely with the airframe manufacturer’s engineers. The mount frame design effort served as a prototype to prove the aircraft design and to define any anomalies. It was also designed to survive specific failure modes and protect the nozzle components during such an event.

Project deliverables included 230 Assembly/Installation and Fabrication drawings, months of customer interfacing, and field installation support.

The success of the mount system was not only measured by the ease of installation and use but also by demonstrating the need for redesign of the flight hardware due to results of our structure support analysis.