ISO-Plane TRL3
ISO-Plane TRL3
Overview
ISO-Plane TRL3 marks the transition from validated conceptual architecture (TRL2) to detailed engineering definition.
At this stage, the objective is to demonstrate analytical and experimental proof of critical subsystems, validate structural hypotheses, and prepare the program for industrial engagement.
TRL3 focuses on transforming a coherent digital mock-up into an engineering-driven, simulation-supported aircraft definition.
TRL Context
Technology Readiness Level 3 corresponds to:
- Analytical and experimental proof-of-concept
- Validation of key subsystems
- Identification of technical risks
- Structural and aerodynamic refinement
- Preparation for pre-industrial maturation
TRL3 is the first phase where engineering depth becomes the primary driver of development.
TRL2 → TRL3 Transition
Achieved at TRL2
- Global aircraft architecture validated
- 3D digital mock-up completed
- Loading system concept defined
- Engine selection confirmed (PW150A)
- Q400-based landing gear integration concept
- Preliminary performance and mass estimation
- Market and operational study
Objectives of TRL3
- Detailed structural calculations (RDM)
- Aerodynamic refinement and CFD validation
- Ventral cargo door structural sizing
- Central wing box optimization
- Mechanized arm load path validation
- Landing gear integration structural verification
- Weight breakdown consolidation
- Systems architecture refinement
- First industrial technical exchanges
Technical Work Packages (TRL3)
1. Structural Engineering
- Finite Element Analysis (FEA) of fuselage
- Central wing box structural modeling
- Pressurized cargo bay analysis
- Ventral door reinforcement modeling
- Load cases: flight, landing, container lift
- Fatigue considerations
Primary objective: Validate structural feasibility of a 4 m diameter fuselage integrating a ventral opening.
2. Aerodynamics & Performance
- CFD analysis of high-wing twin-boom configuration
- Drag breakdown refinement
- Propeller slipstream interaction studies
- High-lift device optimization
- Takeoff and landing performance reassessment
- Updated range analysis
Primary objective: Validate aerodynamic assumptions and refine mission envelope.
3. Cargo Handling System Validation
- Detailed kinematic modeling of robotic arms
- Load transfer path analysis
- Twist-lock structural validation
- Emergency winch redundancy verification
- Ground clearance simulations
- Failure mode analysis (FMEA)
Primary objective: Prove autonomous container handling structural credibility.
4. Landing Gear Integration
- Structural integration of Q400-derived landing gear
- Nacelle reinforcement studies
- Retraction mechanism packaging validation
- Ground stability assessment
- Brake energy evaluation
Primary objective: Ensure compatibility between cargo bay geometry and gear integration.
5. Mass & Balance Consolidation
- Updated mass breakdown
- CG envelope refinement
- Payload-range curve update
- Structural margin validation
Primary objective: Confirm feasibility of ~30 t MTOW configuration.
Industrial Interface (TRL3)
TRL3 initiates structured dialogue with industrial stakeholders:
Potential discussions with:
- Engine manufacturers
- Landing gear suppliers
- Aerospace structural partners
- Embedded systems suppliers
- Certification advisors
Objectives:
- Validate technical assumptions
- Identify certification pathways
- Evaluate manufacturability constraints
- Explore partnership opportunities
Risk Assessment at TRL3
Major technical risks evaluated:
- Structural reinforcement of ventral opening
- Cargo bay pressurization constraints
- Robotic arm integration mass penalty
- CG shift during container lift operations
- Aeroelastic behavior of high-wing structure
Risk mitigation approach:
- Analytical modeling
- Redundancy concepts
- Conservative structural margins
- Iterative simulation
Environmental & Sustainability Considerations
TRL3 also integrates environmental refinement:
- Updated fuel burn model
- Structural weight reduction strategies
- Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) compatibility studies
- Preliminary lifecycle thinking (LCA preparation)
Deliverables of TRL3
At completion of TRL3, the project aims to produce:
- Validated structural calculation reports
- Aerodynamic simulation results
- Detailed subsystem architecture documentation
- Updated digital mock-up
- Consolidated mass statement
- TRL4 preparation roadmap
Path Toward TRL4
TRL4 will focus on:
- Subscale structural demonstrators
- Ground testing of loading mechanism
- Wind tunnel validation (if feasible)
- Certification pre-discussions
- Early industrial feasibility assessment
Strategic Vision
TRL3 transforms ISO-Plane from an architectural concept into an engineering program.
It is the stage where:
- Feasibility becomes quantifiable
- Industrial credibility begins
- Technical maturity increases
- Program risk is reduced
ISO-Plane TRL3 is the foundation for future prototype development.
ISO-Plane – Engineering the next generation of container air logistics.