Numerical Analysis of the Water Entry Process of the Cabin Structure of the Trans-Domain Morphing Aircraft Considering Structural Deformation

Abstract

During the water entry process of a trans-domain morphing aircraft, significant impact forces are generated when the aircraft hits the water surface, which will potentially cause the deformation of the cabin structure and might damage the structure or onboard devices. Thus, it is necessary to investigate the water entry process of the cabin structure. This paper analyses changes in fluid loads and the corresponding structural responses during the water entry process. Firstly, the numerical model is established for the water entry process and the modeling method is validated by comparing the results to the experimental data. An empirical formula is developed to correlate the impact loads with the water entry velocities. Then, fluid–structure interaction analysis of the water entry process is performed using a two-way coupling approach. The relationship between structural deformation and the water entry process is then investigated. The results are compared with those without considering the structural deformation. The empirical formula is then modified to reflect the effects of the deformation. The results show that structural deformation will disperse the impact load, which represents different responses compared to the rigid cabin structure.