Structural Analysis of the Bottom Plate of 1.2-tonne WIG Craft subjected to Wave Impact Pressure Load

Abstract

A WIG (Wing-In-Ground effect) craft flies close to the water surface by utilising a cushion of relatively high pressurised air between its wing and the water surface. This implies that when one designs such craft it is important to have lightweight structures with adequate strength to resist external loads with some margins. To investigate this requirement, this paper deals with the structural analysis of the bottom plate of 1.2-tonne WIG craft when it lands on the water surface. The strength information of the bottom plate is obtained using the first-ply-failure analysis in conjunction with an appropriate composite laminated plate theory. As a result, the first-ply-failure location, load and deflection of the bottom plate are obtained. This calculated strength information is compared with the water reaction load information for the bottom plate of seaplanes considered when they lands on the water surface - the same solid-fluid interaction mechanism for the WIG craft. In the calculation of the seaplanes' water reaction load information, the rules shown in FAR (Federal Aviation Regulations) Part 25 are used. Through the comparison, the structural safety of the bottom plate design for the WIG craft is checked.