Set-Up of a Generic Aeroelastic Simulation Model for Demonstration and Software Testing Purposes
Francisco CARVALHO, Arne VOSS, Raffaello MARIANI
Abstract. This work presents the development and comprehensive analysis of an open-source aeroelastic model for the Douglas DC-3 with some modifications. The model serves as a platform for software testing, capturing essential aeroelastic phenomena. It features a conventional configuration with two engines, control surfaces, and a wing with a leading-edge sweep angle of 15.5°, dihedral angle of 5° and aspect ratio of 9.2, operating in a subsonic regime. The development process included finite element modeling using beam elements, aerodynamic modeling with the Doublet Lattice Method (DLM), and mass modeling with a dedicated fuel mass model. Trim case analyses were performed using both Loads Kernel and SOL144 in MSC Nastran, revealing significant differences between rigid and flexible configurations. Maneuver load analyses were conducted exclusively using Loads Kernel. Additionally, gust loads were studied using the (1-cos) Discrete Gust Model, demonstrating coupling with the short-period mode due to high static margin. Flutter checks showed matching results between Loads Kernel and MSC Nastran, with flutter speeds of 195 m/s and 203 m/s, respectively, confirming the model’s plausibility for aeroelastic analysis.
Keywords
Aeroelasticity, Maneuver Loads, Gust Loads, Flutter, DC-3, Loads Kernel
Published online 7/20/2026, 6 pages
Copyright © 2026 by the author(s)
Published under license by Materials Research Forum LLC., Millersville PA, USA
Citation: Francisco CARVALHO, Arne VOSS, Raffaello MARIANI, Set-Up of a Generic Aeroelastic Simulation Model for Demonstration and Software Testing Purposes, Materials Research Proceedings, Vol. 69, pp 352-357, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21741/9781644904251-63
The article was published as article 63 of the book CEAS – AIDAA Conference 2025
Content from this work may be used under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 license. Any further distribution of this work must maintain attribution to the author(s) and the title of the work, journal citation and DOI.
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