Application of High-order Panel Method in Static Aeroelastic Analysis of Aircraft

A static aeroelastic analysis method based on the high-order panel method and modal method has been recommended through two examples of a high-aspect-ratio wing and a low-aspect-ratio wing. The subsonic aerodynamic forces of a high-aspect-ratio wing and the subsonic/supersonic aerodynamic forces of a low-aspect-ratio wing are investigated in this study. The influences of elastic structural deformation on aerodynamic forces are studied with an emphasis on the aerodynamic coefficients, wing root loads, structural deformation and pressure distribution of different sections, and these results are compared with the results from low-order panel method and the results based on experimental aerodynamic forces. It is concluded that aerodynamic forces can be accurately calculated with the high-order panel method. The method presented in this study is feasible, credible and efficient. Comprehensive static aeroelastic characteristics can be provided by the method for initial phases of aircraft design.