Static Testing and Analysis of Composite Wing of a Two-Seater Aircraft Powered by Li-Ion Battery Electric Propulsion

Abstract

The present paper studied the strength and deformation characteristics of a composite wing of a two-seater aircraft powered by Li-ion battery electric propulsion. In order to get the airworthiness certificate, the static testing is indispensable. The primary wing structure component includes upper and lower skins, leading edge, trailing edge, a root rib and main spar. The main purpose of static testing is to examine the bending strength of the wing. The testing results are in good agreement with the FE analysis results and the bending strength of wing is strong enough to support the limit loads (the maximum loads to the expected in service) without detrimental and permanent deformation, and without failure for at least 3s under the ultimate loads (limit loads multiplied by prescribed factors of safety), which meets ASTM F2245-11(Standard Specification for Design and Performance of a Light Sport Airplane) enough.