Aircraft Structural Design Geared for High Reliance on Analysis for Acceptance
Abstract
The results of an initial study of key structural areas for the design of a state-of-the-art composite fighter wing are used to highlight the fundamental changes that can be expected when aircraft acceptance considers analyses as a prime tool for demonstrating that the structure is safe for flight. For analyses to become the primary basis for accepting an aircraft structural design, a high level of confidence must be developed for the analysis methods used. The strategy investigated here is to maximize this confidence level in the use of probabilistic aircraft structural design methods rather than conventional deterministic methods. In a recent advanced lightweight aircraft structure development program, an advanced design of composite materials was created, using the latest deterministic design and manufacturing features. This composite fighter design effort provides a good benchmark for exploring the potential differences in design and testing that can be expected if probabilistic design methods are used to establish high confidence in design analysis. This present study chose two key aspects of the wing on which to investigate these differences. First examined is a local model of the cobonded joint attaching the wing box cover to the wing spars. For the second, the post-buckled design of the wing box cover is examined while subjected to the most severe maneuver load case.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADP014166
Entities
People
- A. West
- D. Wieland
- H. Millwater
- K. Griffin
- M. Holly
Organizations
- Southwest Research Institute