NAVAL ROTORCRAFT WATER IMPACT CRASH SIMULATION USING PROGRAM KRASH

A key element of advancing crashworthiness technology for overwater applications is creating the ability to predict and analyze impact forces and accelerations to aircraft involved in water mishaps. A joint effort between the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIRSYSCOM) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is underway to upgrade the capability of computer program KRASH for the purpose of analyzing aircraft structural response arising from water impacts, as opposed to rigid surface impacts. KRASH program development, program features, and validation efforts are described. The mechanisms which produce structural damage and occupant injury during water impacts is presented, along with the water impact algorithms. The application of KRASH to a rotorcraft water impact accident is presented, along with the results and a comparison to available accident data. A description of current and planned activities in the use of state-of-the-art computer technology to assist in the accident investigation of both military and civil aircraft is included. The procedure involves the use of a PC version of KRASH.