The Aeroelastic Effects of Transverse Shear Deformation on Composite Wings in Various Speed Flow Regimes
Abstract
This project analyzes the effect of transverse shear deformation upon the aeroelastic response of composite wings in high speed flow regimes. Previously, models were developed to predict the aeroelastic characteristics of classical materials in high speed flow. However, these studies ignored transverse shear by assuming an infinite modulus of rigidity. This assumption underestimates transverse flexibility by ignoring the transfer of loads through the wing thickness. By assuming a finite modulus of rigidity and redeveloping the governing equations, this model would more accurately predict the aeroelastic response of composite wings. This analysis concerns mainly the determination of aeroelastic trends versus more detailed solutions. Thus, linearized flow theory is used. Initially, this research focused on analyzing the aeroelastic effects of compressibility and transverse shear deformation with the thought that the findings could be used to design high-performance aircraft. However, the results have shown that transverse shear is a larger problem at low air speeds than at high air speeds. Every analysis from the effect of transverse shear flexibility to wing thickness showed that the wing properties common in general aviation aircraft led to larger variations in aerodynamic performance. The results also showed that as Mach number increases, the critical air speeds in both steady and unsteady flow decrease, and the compressible analysis varies from incompressible analysis by anywhere from 0-30% in standard atmospheric conditions. Upon conclusion, the study gives results for divergence speed and flutter speeds, as well as their mode shapes. (8 tables, 16 figures, 12 refs.)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 02, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA419448
Entities
People
- Michael Oliver