A Probabilistic Approach in Fuselage Damage Analysis via Boundary Element Method

Abstract

This chapter presents a new alternative approach to the analysis of the fatigue life of aircraft fuselage parts considering the compliance of internal elements to replace the classical model of critical crack size. In this case, from a global–local analysis using the boundary element method (BEM), induced stresses at a macro model, and their effects on micro models are evaluated. The BEM enables efficient simulations of the propagation of initial defects to assess the damage tolerance. For this purpose, computational techniques were developed that allowed evaluating these models, through a probabilistic treatment to assess damage tolerance and fatigue life. Finally, this technique is shown as an alternative to ensure the integrity and proper operation of fuselage panels avoiding reaching a Limit State during its projected lifespan.