Experimental Verification of Program KRASH-A Mathematical Model for General Aviation Structural Crash Dynamics

The results of four fully instrumented, full-scale crash tests involving a single-engine, high-wing light airplane are described herein. The tests were performed under a contract sponsored by the Federal Aviation Administration. The range of impact conditions included initial airplane roll and/or yaw, a nose-down attitude, a flared nose-up attitude and impacts onto a rigid (concrete) and a flexible (soil) surface. Photographs are presented showing the impact conditions, as well as some typical postcrash damage. The crash test models, analyzed using digital computer program KRASH, are described. Typical analysis versus test correlation results as well as a summary correlation for all four crash tests are presented. The application of Program KRASH to assess structural design concepts with regard to crash dynamics characteristics is briefly described.