A Finite Element Based Tool Chain for Structural Sizing of Transport Aircraft in Preliminary Aircraft Design

Kurzfassung

This paper introduces a fully parameterized finite element based tool chain for the structural sizing of transport aircraft. The chain consists of two model generators, a coupling module, a loads module for the computation of aerodynamic, fuel, landing gear and engine loads as well as a structural analysis and sizing algorithm. The finite element models of the wing and the empennage are created by the ELWIS multi-model generator, while the corresponding fuselage model is created using the TRAFUMO model generator. The structural coupling comprises the detailed modeling of all key structural elements of the center fuselage area including a keelbeam, bulkheads, sideboxes and lateral panels. The empennage coupling structure includes a reinforcement framework, reinforced frames and a mounting structure for the horizontal tail plane trim device. To establish suitability in preliminary aircraft design, a knowledge-based approach is chosen that enables a fully automatic model generation and coupling on a minimum set of required input parameters. As a central data format for input and output the DLR aircraft parameterization format CPACS is used. Therefore, the chain can be easily embedded in a wider MDA/MDO approach for overall preliminary aircraft design. Finally, first static sizing results are discussed and different validation methods for the static sizing algorithm are presented, including a comparison with a validated analytical method.