Structural Considerations for Aircraft Payload Modification-P-3C Zero Fuel Weight Increase
Abstract
The Navy is considering the feasibility of increasing the patrol aircraft P-3C zero fuel weight enabling avionics and payload growth. This analysis examines the consequences to the structural requirements of the center section wing box. Two solutions to the structures field equations are investigated: a simplified hand solution for preliminary feasibility calculations and a more precise solution for design analysis. Together, the solutions provide a necessary check for the results. The simplified solution employs the Euler-Bernoulli assumption which generates a set of integrals expressed in terms of the assumed displacements. These integrals, when combined with simplified geometric shapes and symmetry, ultimately produce a decoupled matrix solution. The precise solution uses a PC based finite element method which simultaneously solves the field equations for basic elements to be linked together with the appropriate boundary conditions. For the current 135,000 pound gross weight lg load condition, the internal stresses calculated by finite element are in accord with those by simplified hand calculation. Extensions from this modeling will generate design criterion for the target 95,000 pound zero fuel weight aircraft as well as alternate flight or taxi conditions.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA242690
Entities
People
- Steven D. Culpepper
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School