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Design and Test of an Improved Crashworthiness Small Composite AirframeThe purpose of this small business innovative research (SBIR) program was to evaluate the feasibility of developing small composite airplanes with improved crashworthiness. A combination of analysis and half scale component tests were used to develop an energy absorbing airframe. Four full scale crash tests were conducted at the NASA Impact Dynamics Research Facility, two on a hard surface and two onto soft soil, replicating earlier NASA tests of production general aviation airplanes. Several seat designs and restraint systems including both an air bag and load limiting shoulder harnesses were tested. Tests showed that occupant loads were within survivable limits with the improved structural design and the proper combination of seats and restraint systems. There was no loss of cabin volume during the events. The analysis method developed provided design guidance but time did not allow extending the analysis to soft soil impact. This project demonstrated that survivability improvements are possible with modest weight penalties. The design methods can be readily applied by airplane designers using the examples in this report.
Document ID
20020068132
Acquisition Source
Langley Research Center
Document Type
Contractor Report (CR)
Authors
Terry, James E.
(Terry Engineering Andover, KS United States)
Hooper, Steven J.
(Wichita State Univ. Wichita, KS United States)
Nicholson, Mark
(Wichita State Univ. Wichita, KS United States)
Date Acquired
September 7, 2013
Publication Date
August 1, 2002
Subject Category
Aircraft Design, Testing And Performance
Report/Patent Number
NAS 1.26:211774
NASA/CR-2002-211774
Funding Number(s)
PROJECT: RTOP 728-50-10-01
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAS1-20427
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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