Aircraft Airbag Drop Impact Test for Shock Performance

February 2024

Test Objective

To evaluate the shock absorption performance of inflatable airbags during controlled drop tests using a multi-channel dynamic measurement system.

Test Setup

1. Measurement System:

Primary equipment: 8-channel DE-944 Dynamic Signal Test and Analysis System

Sensor configuration:

• 3 high-G accelerometers (mounted on front/middle/rear positions of steel frame)

• Synchronized high-speed camera (1000fps) for motion tracking

2. Test Article:

• Prototype aircraft landing gear airbag system

• Multiple pressure configurations (50-150psi in 25psi increments)

3. Test Platform:

• 5m vertical drop tower with guided rails

• 500kg simulated aircraft mass

Test Procedure

    1. Instrumented the steel impact frame with triaxial accelerometers

    2. Conducted sequential drops from 3m height for each pressure variant

    3. Acquired 8 channels of acceleration data at 20kHz sampling rate

    4. Performed 5 repeat tests per configuration for statistical significance

Key Parameters Analyzed

• Peak deceleration (G) at each measurement point

• Pulse duration (ms) of impact event

• Energy absorption efficiency

• Pressure-to-performance correlation

Preliminary Findings

• Optimal performance observed at 100psi configuration:

  • 62% reduction in peak G-load compared to rigid impact

  • 35% longer pulse duration than lowest pressure setting

• Front frame location showed 15% higher peak acceleration than rear

• Nonlinear stiffness characteristics observed above 125psi

Engineering Significance

• Validated airbag design meets MIL-STD-810G requirements for emergency landing

• Identified pressure tuning range for operational deployment

• Demonstrated measurement system capability for transient impact events

Conclusion

The controlled drop impact tests demonstrated that inflatable aircraft airbags play a critical role in mitigating landing shock loads during emergency scenarios. By systematically analyzing pressure configurations, the study identified an optimal range—particularly around 100 psi—that delivered the best balance of energy absorption and structural protection. This configuration reduced peak G-forces by over 60% compared to rigid impacts, while also extending pulse duration for smoother deceleration. The observed nonlinear stiffness at higher pressures highlights the importance of precise tuning to avoid diminishing returns.

These results not only validate compliance with MIL-STD-810G but also provide valuable insights for future design optimization and operational guidelines. The data gathered will serve as a foundation for advanced CFD simulations, full-scale integration, and environmental condition testing. Ultimately, this research reinforces the viability of airbag systems as a cost-effective, lightweight solution for enhancing passenger safety and structural integrity in modern aircraft design.