Application of Computer-Aided analysis tools for aircraft occupant and seat crashworthiness problems

Abstract

This paper describes some applications of the computer-aided analysis tools typically used in the studies of the crash responses of aircraft seats and occupants. The methodology used incorporates a combination of non linear finite element analysis and multibody modeling of the seat and the occupant as well as component testing in early design stages, and sled and/or full-scale testing in later stages of design evaluations. The nature of the current crashworthiness standards is first discussed. The systems approach utilised for the aircraft seat design process is briefly described. Examples of this systems approach methodology for some of the current crash safety issues are then presented and the importance of the CAE tools in these crashworthiness problems is demonstrated. These crashworthiness problems include the head impact protection for seats facing the bulkhead, the solution to the proposed 32G commuter seat, and the certification criteria for side-facing aircraft seats. Using this methodology and the CAE tools, solutions to these crashworthiness problems are arrived at.