In the context of the assembly, what is the term for the surface of the doubler that bows outward?

The term for the surface of the doubler that bows outward is "convex." A convex surface is one that curves outward, creating a bulging effect. This is common in aerospace components where structural reinforcements, such as doublers, are used to enhance the strength and integrity of a surface. The convex shape can be beneficial as it helps distribute loads more evenly across the surface, which is crucial in maintaining the structural integrity of the assembly under various operational stresses.

In contrast, a concave surface curves inward, resembling a bowl shape, which serves a different purpose and is not relevant to the outward bowing characteristic of a doubler. A flat surface does not have any curvature, while the neutral term typically refers to a state of balance, without emphasizing the specific curvature that defines a convex surface. Understanding these definitions is essential for recognizing the characteristics required for effective aerospace assembly and maintenance.