NASA has conducted a new full-scale crash test to improve the structural design and certification of electric air cabs. The test was executed on June 26 at the Langley Research Center in Virginia, seeks to optimize passenger protection by using materials that better absorb energy in the event of a crash.
The test and drop test for the air mobility of the future
This Langley team hoisted an aircraft fuselage representative of an air cab about 10 meters into the air before dropping it from a metal structure. The drop included a 10-degree yaw, replicating one of the conditions required by the Federal Aviation Administration(FAA) for future certification of this type of flying vehicle.
The test implemented weighted dummies and internal structures designed to absorb impacts, including deformable subfloors similar to safety zones in automobiles. In addition, simulated battery mass was integrated under the floor of the aircraft to study its behavior in stronger collisions.
The researchers compared actual damage with predictions generated by computer simulations. The agreement between the two models validates digital analysis tools while advancing the generation of essential data for electric aircraft manufacturers.
By showing elements of an accident, along with how additional energy absorption technology could help make the aircraft more robust, these tests will contribute to the development of safety standards for advanced air mobility aircraft, leading to safer designs.
Justin Littell, test team leader.
The results obtained will be shared publicly by NASA to promote technological progress in collaboration with companies and institutions in the sector. This breakthrough is part of the Revolutionary Vertical Lift Technology project, part of the Advanced Aerial Vehicles the agency’s Advanced Aerial Vehicles program.
The design of full-scale impact tests. Source: NASA Langley Research Center
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Source and photo: NASA
