REFINED OPERATING PROFILE GENERATION FOR AIR CUSHION VEHICLES

This paper examines the utilization of Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC) historical operational data, empirical knowledge and emergent lifecycle topics to refine the operational profile of LCAC and other air cushion vehicles. Since 1986, the United States Navy's (USN) LCAC vehicle has accumulated sizeable operational hours in a unique and rigorous environment. Such a distinctive operating environment prohibits singular application of a surface ship or aircraft operational profile. Addressing emergent lifecycle issues, such as fleet wide main engine 4(th) nozzle failures, the need for a refined operating profile has been identified. Presently, all component life limit forecasting and inspection criterion are dictated by an antiquated notional operating profile, which utilize inadequate cycling assumptions. Furthermore, existing practice records total operational hours and main engine start data. Neither variable correspond to cyclic data. Improved accuracy of the mission profile will assist in drive-train component life limit assessment and critical inspection criteria. This paper will expand upon generation of a refined operation profile tailored to air cushion vehicle operation based upon service history, mission requirements and testing.