A computational and experimental analysis of high energy impact to sheet metal aircraft structures

Aircraft structures are large and complex structures, generally constructed from thin sheet metal or composite materials. As a result, analysis and prediction of the behaviour of such structures when subjected to high energy impacts is very complex. There are many non-linearity’s inherent in the problem which contribute further to the complexity (non-linear material behaviour, large deformations, dynamic effects, etc.). Traditional analytical methods and experimental analysis have produced a limited understanding of the behaviour of such structures during impact and have allowed for the development of current aircraft structure technology. Computational design analysis techniques (specifically non-linear finite element methods) have the potential to provide a deeper understanding of the problem and hence enable the design of safer and more efficient airframes. Preliminary investigations have shown that computational analysis can predict the behaviour of aircraft structures with accuracy and can identify the locations and reasons for failure during impact. However it is important to develop and identify good modelling techniques to ensure accurate representation of real life situations. This paper presents results from the simulation of high energy impact to simple aircraft structures. All simulation results have been validated using a specially designed experimental rig.