A Framework Enabling a Physics-based Approach to Preliminary Design and Optimization of Metallic and Composite Wing Box Structures

摘要

A capability is needed to accurately predict or reduce the weight of aircraft structural components early in the design cycle to improve both performance and efficiency. The toolkit, SPANDSET, was developed to meet this demand and provides the capability to evaluate preliminary wing box designs by allowing rapid generation of wing geometry and candidate structural layouts in addition to calculating the internal loads and performing the initial sizing of structural elements. A case study is provided to illustrate the application of the SPANDSET toolkit to a small business jet and the results to be expected from metallic, composite, or other special routines.