Crash loads as specified in AC43-13-2B? Or flight loads on the wings, which are specific to the wing geometry? Landing and take-off loads, which may be determined by the type of runway on which you are landing (gravel, grass, pavement, etc.)?
Sorry, but your question is a little vague. To the best of my knowledge, there is no "canned" software to solve all of your load scenarios.
It's not unlike asking if there is a software package to take the professional engineers exam for you...
Although I am not familiar with it, there is a FAR23 loads calculation program of some description and it was the subject of a lengthy thread on Eng-Tips a few years ago, although I cannot find that thread now.
I recall that the IPR to the software are now with McGettrick Structural Engineering.
Hi, I am the current owner of the FAR23 Loads software. I am trying to wrap up a new release. I've been saying this for several years, but I have a lot more time on my hands right now due to the slow economy. I also have a programmer helping me work out the bugs.
This program has several enhancements over the original McMaster version, which includes a central data base which shares information between modules.
bmikel - I don't want to be a downer, and I don't know all that Mcgettrick has done with the McMaster program, but my experience with today's FAA is that you will have a hard time getting something accepted from a 'canned' program. I don't know how extensive your project is, but a new part 23 aircraft design is pretty major. If you're serious about the project, you should contact a Structural DER with special authorization for loads calculations. The FAA website with the DER list is at:
Luket,
As a user of FAR 23 LOADS l can assure you that even in its original form it is very useful. We have used the program on several projects, from single seat Experimental type to a twin engined commuter plane (18500lbs).
I have been asking FAR23Owner to develop the code for some time now, the idea beign to intergrate the original McMaster modules into a more cohesive single-entry (per parameter) prog.
When we used the program for the Farnborough F1 air taxi (which morphed into the AIR Epic LT) we did a full validation to UK CAA standards. There were 2 or 3 residual mistakes in the program and we decided to amend the constants in other places (to best suit our plane), apart from that the program is ready to use and is accepted by FAA.
We suppliment FAR 23 LOADS now with CFD and other load data to reduce conservatism and manage risk in the Certification phase.
Highly recommended, suggest you start hassling FAR23Owner as well.
