A correlation study of X-29A aircraft and associated analytical development

Abstract

Results of the contractor structural and aerodynamic analysis of the X-29A aircraft are verified. A brief history and potential advantages of the X-29A aircraft are discussed. The NASA developed computer package, STARS (STructures, Aerodynamics, and Related Systems), which is used in verifying contractor results is discussed. Enhancements of the STARS package are described, particularly the incorporation of the FASTEX computer program under STARS, and the development of a complete computer graphics system. A comparative study of free vibration and aerodynamic analysis of the X-29A aircraft is given. This study has shown that the natural frequencies and modeshapes determined analytically by STARS and the contractor compare relatively well with experimentally determined data. Also included in the study is the formulation and development of the higher-order plane-stress finite dynamic triangular element.