Approximation of Distributed Aerodynamic Force to a Few Concentrated Forces for Studying Supersonic Panel Flutter

Abstract

The present study considers the usage of concentrated forces to simulate real panel flutter. The concept of using concentrated forces have been validated for studying the flutter of wing structure in subsonic flow, yet its application in the supersonic region remained to be explored. Hence, a simply supported panel subjected to forces, equivalent to aerodynamic force is considered for studying supersonic panel flutter. The distributed aerodynamic forces are approximated to few concentrated forces by taking numerical integration. The aeroelastic equation is formulated using the classical small-deflection theory and the piston theory for linear panel flutter whereas for emulated panel flutter the flutter equation is derived by replacing the pressure due to aerodynamic loading with pressure from concentrated loading. Finally, flutter frequency, flutter dynamic pressure, and corresponding mode shape are found for emulated panel flutter and compared with linear panel flutter. Two important parameters, the number of concentrated forces and their location are discussed through numerical examples and optimization process respectively. So far, the flutter results acquired in this study are reasonable to suggest the feasibility of reproducing panel flutter using concentrated forces.