Numerical simulation of aircraft interior components under crash loads

Abstract

Aircraft interior components like overhead stowage compartments may be subjected to highly dynamic loads in case of turbulence or an emergency landing where the structural integrity of these lightweight components made of composite sandwich materials has to be maintained. Dynamic simulations of such overhead bins under crash loads were conducted in parallel with experimental full-scale testing to investigate the structural behaviour. The focus of these investigations is on modelling of the honeycomb sandwich materials, joints and baggage involved, which made testing on a coupon and component level necessary. Because the structural response of these overhead bins depends on a large number of parameters, uncertainty assessment methods were utilised for their characterisation. Despite the complexity of the models, a high level of correlation of simulation results and experimental data could be achieved making such numerical methods a useful tool for the development of cabin components for dynamic loads.

Keywords:

• aircraft interior
• baggage modelling
• dynamic simulation
• material modelling
• sandwich structures
• uncertainty analysis

Acknowledgement

This investigation was accomplished in the framework of the 2nd aeronautical research programme of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg. The authors thank M. Pein (Hamburg University of Technology) for performing the joint testing as well as M. Sperber and M. Demary (TÜV Rheinland) for the dynamic baggage and OHSC testing and the development of the energy absorber element.