Structural analysis of a composite target-drone

Abstract

A finite element analysis for the wing and landing gear of a composite target-drone air vehicle was performed. For the wing analysis, two load cases were considered: a 5g symmetric pull-up and a -1.5g symmetric push-over. For the landing gear analysis, a sinking velocity of 1.4 m/s at a 2g level landing condition was taken into account. MSC/NASTRAN and LS-DYNA were utilized for the static and dynamic analyses, respectively. Finite element results were verified by the static test of a prototype wing under a 6g symmetric pull-up condition. The test showed a 17% larger wing tip deflection than the finite element analysis. This difference is believed to come from the material and geometrical imperfections incurred during the manufacturing process. ? The Korean Society for Aeronautical & Space Sciences.