Managing Technological Risk
The technology exists today to build the Aerion SBJ. The wing
technology has been demonstrated in NASA flight tests at
supersonic speeds, confirming laminar flow predictions. A
suitable engine (the greatest technological hurdle in any
supersonic program) is available and in widespread current
use. No exotic structural materials or manufacturing
techniques are required. Systems will represent best current
practices and be similar to those now used for large business
jets.
By designing the aircraft for a maximum 1.6 Mach cruise,
numerous technical obstacles can be avoided, including
complex systems and the need for high temperature materials.
Setting the certification ceiling at 51,000 feet, the same as
for other business jets, reduces certification requirements
and technical unknowns involved in certifying above this
altitude.
The Aerion SBJ advances the state of the art through new aerodynamics and advanced design optimization methods, yet systems and materials are conventional, reliable and commonly in use in current production designs.
Aerion constructed an aerodynamic test wing to validate CFD
results. Carried beneath a NASA F-15, the half wing section
was in highly disturbed flow generated by the aircraft, but
nevertheless demonstrated robust laminar flow that matched
predictions.