A Comprehensive Loads Process at the DLR - Definition, Analysis, Experimental Evaluation

Abstract

The determination of loads acting on the aircraft is one of the main tasks during aircraft development. The knowledge of loads is important for aircraft design, e.g., for the sizing of the airframe structure, as well as for certifcation. The defnition of realistic load assumptions is important, as well as the generation of loads from simulation and experiment. The DLR is involved in a large number of aircraft design activities, and operates a fleet of research aircraft; thus, the DLR requires in-depth expertise for the defnition and the determination of relevant and crucial load cases. The aim of the iLOADS project is the development of an internal DLR load process, comprising expertise from various DLR institutes. The goal of the process is to strengthen the assessment capabilities of the DLR with respect to the influence of loads on new aircraft confgurations, and to support certifcation capabilities for the DLR aircraft fleet. The load process is investigated with regard to the influence of various analysis approaches on aircraft structural design, and it is subject to verifcation and validation on different aircraft confgurations. The paper will give an overview of the background of the iLOADS project, as well as of the work performed in the project. The defnition of the load process, as well as the implementations for different applications investigated in the project, will be presented in more detail.