Dynamic analysis of aircraft impact using the linear elastic finite element codes FINEL, SAP and STARDYNE

The static and dynamic response of a cylindrical/spherical containment to a Boeing 720 impact is computed using 3 different linear elastic computer codes: FINEL, SAP and STARDYNE. Stress and displacement fields are shown together with time histories for a point in the impact zone. The main conclusions from this study are: - In this case the maximum dynamic load factors for stress and displacements were close to 1, but a static analysis alone is not fully sufficient. - More realistic load time histories should be considered. - The main effects seem to be local.

The present study does not indicate general collapse from elastic stresses alone. - Further study of material properties at high strain rates is needed.