McDonnell Douglas Aerospace teamed with Pratt & Whitney and AlliedSignal Aerospace Company for the Subsystem integration Technology (SUIT) program to examine the opportunities for improvement in subsystem integration and to identify a new integration concept.
This concept integrates all aircraft and engine power and cooling systems into a Thermal and Energy Management Module (T/EMM); combines gas separation and usage systems; integrates fuel pumping systems; and integrates utility subsystem controls. The T/EMM is the heart of the concept. It is powered by engine bleed air, rejects heat to engine bypass air, powers airframe and engine subsystems, and provides airframe cooling. The T/EMM can operate autonomously in emergencies or for ground operation.
Performance analyses confirmed the feasibility of the T/EMM concept and demonstrated a 40% reduction in the number of components and a 1,000 lbs reduction in subsystem weight. The weight savings combined with increased energy efficiency reduce vehicle take-off gross weight by 10%. These reductions in equipment and vehicle size translate into significant acquisition and support cost savings.
