Steve Gossett

steve.gossett@mtsu.edu

Ronald Ferrara

Aerospace

Discipline specific equipment

Hangar 2 AIR

N/A

N/A

This request is for updated equipment and environmental controls for the Advanced Structures Laboratory at the Airport Campus Hangar 2. The lab's current configuration was identified by our accrediting agency as deficient. We are addressing part of the deficiency through other funding sources. In addition, there are concerns that the current environmental controls for dust and fumes are insufficient. This update of the lab will address these concerns along with providing the ability to have additional student workstations allowing students to complete multiple projects simultaneously without having to work in large groups or working on projects outside schedule lab time. This lab space is currently used by 165 students enrolled in the Department's Maintenance Management and Technology concentrations. We have also worked with students on special projects (Solar Car, Rocket Team, Senior Capstone) needing lab equipment. This project will give the lab additional capabilities to expand the Unmanned Aircraft System's (UAS) curriculum. The lab is currently using four first-generation bonding machines that were purchased in 1989. These bonding machines are used to manufacture and repair composite parts and develop prototype parts without the need of an autoclave. The replacement bonders will give the ability to use computer software/network interface and trend monitoring in addition to providing students with current technology used in industry. With increased reliance on composite structures in both aircraft and UAS this update is necessary to keep students competitive.