Mechanism and Structural Optimization for a Bio-Inspired Concept Aircraft
Date of Award
12-12-2024
Degree Name
M.S. in Mechanical Engineering
Department
Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Advisor/Chair
David Myszka
Abstract
This thesis presents a method for estimating the weight of a novel concept aircraft designed with a bio-inspired rotating empennage (BIRE). The selected platform for the BIRE concept is a single-engine, supersonic, tactical aircraft similar to the F-16 Fighting Falcon. The agile, tailless aircraft is able to tilt its horizontal stabilizers to provide yaw stability. To provide the unusual motion, unique mechanisms and structures are required. Sizing models of the mechanical system for the BIRE were generated using first-order principles and component vendor information. The weight estimator uses aerodynamic and inertial loads and physics-based component reliability constraints. An optimization was implemented to select component alternatives and dimensions that minimize the weight. A MATLAB script was written as part of this research to efficiently perform the optimization. Traditional weight estimation methods use empirical estimates that are not accurate when applied to novel concepts. Numerical methods, such as finite element analysis, are too complex to include in trade studies. This mid-fidelity weight estimation has been developed specifically for the BIRE platform but consists of sub-models that can be applied to other mechanical components such as shafts, bearings, gears, and actuators.
Keywords
concept aircraft, mechanical design, structural optimization, weigh estimation, bio-inspired
Rights Statement
Copyright © 2024, author.
Recommended Citation
Studnicka, Jack, "Mechanism and Structural Optimization for a Bio-Inspired Concept Aircraft" (2024). Graduate Theses and Dissertations. 7488.
https://ecommons.udayton.edu/graduate_theses/7488
