Hybrid Element Method for Mid-Frequency Analysis of Composite Structures Subjected to Boundary Layer Loading

Sponsor:
NASA Langley Research Center
Collaborator:
Calvin College

In many situations, aerospace structures are subjected to a wide frequency spectrum of mechanical and/or acoustic excitations and therefore, there is a need for the development of numerical modeling techniques that are applicable for the resolution of dynamic response of complex systems spanning the entire frequency spectrum. Further, the modeling of composite structures becomes more and more important since many new vehicle designs incorporate increased amount of composite structural components due to weight specific advantages of composites.

This project is directed towards the development of techniques that will allow the prediction of noise in the interior of an enclosure such as aircraft due to the transmission of turbulent boundary layer loading in the presence of composite structural components. This innovative Hybrid Element Method (HEM) solution tool for mid-frequency analysis, which utilizes elements of Dynamic Element Analysis (DEA), together with conventional low frequency FEM tools and high frequency (Energy Flow Analysis) EFA tools, will provide a unified framework that is applicable for the solution of full frequency spectrum vibroacoustic prediction of nonuniform aerospace structures including metallic/composite configurations, accurately and efficiently.