Volume III. Systems Phase, Chapter 10: Aeroelasticity Aircraft Structures.
Abstract
Aeroelasticity is the science which deals with the mutual interaction of aerodynamic, elastic, and inertial forces and the aircraft' S structural responses to these forces. If aircraft could be designed as perfectly rigid structures, tben the interaction of these forces would not be important. The weight penalties and the resultant loss of aircraft performance make this design option impractical. This chapter is intended to introduce the flight test crew to the subject of aeroelastic phenomena in aircraft. Paragraph 12.3 deals with material used in aircraft structures, including structural design considerations and use of composite materials in aircraft structures. Paragraph 12.4 introduces aircraft structural response to loads and Paragraph 12.5 presents static and dynamic aeroelastic phenomena due to the interaction of the forces mentioned above. This subject area has taken on increased importance to the flight test crew in recent years. New high strength-to-weight and high stiffness-to-weight materials are being used in aircraft. New aircraft design and fabrication techniques alloy the structural weight to be minimized, thus increasing the flexibility of today's aircraft. Active feedback control surface actuation to alleviate dynamic loads and flutter on aircraft is being used to further decrease aircraft structural weight and thus gain increased performance. New cpmposite aircraft structures require the test crew to better understand materials and structural response to loads. This chapter is intended to introduce the test team to this important subject area.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA320030