Methodology for Implementing Fracture Mechanics in Global Structural Design of Aircraft

摘要

The analysis and design criteria of fracture mechanics are investigated for implementation with the automated structural optimization system (ASTROS) global optimization design tool. The main focus is the optimal design of aircraft wing panels by applying fracture mechanics design criteria within the global finite element model. This effort consists of four main phases: investigation of fracture mechanics analysis methods and design criteria, formulation of a computational technique consistent with global optimization requirements, integration of the technique into the ASTROS design tool, and demonstration of the results.