Finite element analysis of the underslung carrier rocket effect on stress and strain distribution in a structure of the MiG-29 aircraft

The paper presents selected aspect of the analytical-conceptual research project entitled: Airborne-Rocket Launch System for Delivering Satellite Payloads into Low Earth Orbit – Feasibility Study. The aim of the project is to conduct series of aerodynamic, strength, and aeroelastic simulations of Polish aging combat aircraft (Mig-29 and Su-22) to explore applicability of both fighters as an airborne platform for carrying out carrier rockets with a detachable satellite payload. This work presents exemplary analyses in the area of airframe loads and structural strength and deformability of MiG-29 for predicted operational variants with carrier rockets put to the hardpoints under fuselage. The numerical simulations were conducted for a structural discrete model of the aircraft prepared for finite element analysis in MSC Software. Model development involved such aspects as precise discretization of geometric model, declaration of material constants, identification of structural properties, introduction of suitable merging connections for included airframe assemblies, and final validation of model mass and stiffness. The model was analyzed in MSC Nastran software with application of linear “Statics” solution. External flight loads introduced into the model were calculated for specific points of the flight envelope—the highest values of load factor were taken into consideration ( n=9). The counterpart aerodynamic force distribution in a form of a set of equivalent lumped forces was calculated. Then, the aerodynamic and weight loads were added to the model as a set of forces applied to specific structural nodes. Additionally, weights of applicable carrier rockets were taken into account as concentrated forces applied to under-fuselage suspension hardpoints. Calculations were performed for several rockets of mass values between 250 and 1200 kg. Parametric dependencies were investigated as an effect of missile mass and size on stress and strain distribution over the whole structure. The areas of stress cumulations were identified. On the basis of static structural deformation, maximum wing tip displacements were assessed.