Weight reduction of unmanned aircraft considering aerodynamic load uncertainties for reassessment of structural safety factors
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This study introduces a novel method that applies a probabilistic approach to evaluate uncertainties and variabilities in the structural behavior of unmanned aircraft. With this method, the adjusted structural safety factor of the aircraft can be applied, allowing for the assessment and reinforcement of the structure while considering load uncertainties. Consequently, it reduces weight through reassessed structural safety factors while maintaining structural integrity. The load on the aircraft was derived from CFD and structural analysis simulations for the entire aircraft under critical flight maneuvers to consider physical uncertainties. Additionally, the loads obtained from each simulation were analyzed through reliability-based data analysis, and the probabilities of failure and failure rates in structural behavior were calculated. Also, the airworthiness certification regulation was considered concerning the failure rates of unmanned aircraft. Furthermore, this research proposes a new method to adjust unmanned aircraft's structural safety factors for weight reduction. The adjustment was performed on secondary structures, and then the integrity of the aircraft was examined using an integration of deterministic and probabilistic methods .
Source: Aerospace Science and Technology
Authors: Yeeryung Choi, Jiseon Ahn, Gun Jin Yun
Institution: Seoul National University
Language: English
Subfield: Statistics, Probability and Uncertainty
Field: Decision Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,360
OpenAlex ID: W4409829212