Moment Engineering specializes in airframe development, also referred to as aircraft primary structures or aerostructures, with expertise in structural analysis, dynamics, and aeroelasticity.
Capabilities by Category
Our capabilities are described below. More information can be seen by clicking the arrow by the category.
Finite Element Model Development
- Coarse and fine mesh Nastran FEM development for loads, flutter, and stress analysis
- Mass and stiffness modeling for aeroelastic analysis
- Model validation from test
- Nastran static, buckling, modal, dynamics response, random vibration, flutter, aeroelastic response solutions
- Femap API development
- FE model debugging
- GVT model correlation
Flutter Analysis
- Classic Nastran PK or Zaero G method aeroelastic flutter predictions for main surfaces (e.g. wings, vertical tail) or control surfaces, Vfg diagrams
- Subsonic and supersonic applications
- Aerodynamic panel modeling and splining
- Certification-required analysis such as sensitivities
- Design modifications to prevent or mitigate flutter
- Aeroservoelastic predictions for gain and phase margins
- Designing against panel flutter
- Tool development
Airframe Ground Testing
- Coupon, Element, Full Scale structural test predictions and correlations
- Free play testing for control surfaces
- Ground Vibration Testing for modal parameters
- Structural Mode Interaction Testing (aka Structural Coupling Testing) for airframe and control system interactions
Flight Flutter Testing
- Accelerometer criteria definition
- Digital signal processing for frequency response (PSDs, FRFs, etc) during excitation (i.e. frequency sweeps)
- Real time monitoring of safety of test sensors during sweeps
- Determination of modal parameters (mode frequency, damping) in-flight
- Post test analysis, including trending of modal parameters for continued safe envelope expansion
Structural Development
- Development of program-specific testing requirements tailored to risk, cost, timeliness, certification goals, including coupon, element, component, assembly, to full scale tests
- Stress analysis of parts and assemblies for composites or metallics
- Analysis of bonded or bolted joints
External Loads Development
- Experience with applying ASTM F3116: Standard Specification for Design Loads and Conditions, a modern means of compliance for 14 CFR FAR Part 23 Airworthiness Standards: Normal Category Airplanes
- Panel model generation and splining to structural model
- Load case downselection
- Internal loads process development, including the application of external loads to more detailed stress models and coordination with stress teams