Virtual modelling of propellers impact with the runway to support air crash investigations

This document explores the application of simulation tools to assist air accident investigators, both as an investigation aid and a training resource. Virtual modelling enables the recreation of aircraft crash scenes in full-scale 3D representations, supporting wreckage distribution analysis. While this technology shows promise as an effective training and investigative tool, further developments are needed to overcome current limitations. The project proposes a methodology to construct a CAD model of the Piper PA-28-181 Cherokee Archer II with a Sensenich 76EM8S5-0-62 fixed-pitch propeller blade using reverse engineering techniques. This model aids in structural and impact analyses, particularly in assessing the structural integrity of the propeller blade. The process involves 3D scanning to obtain an STL file, generating a CAD model in SolidWorks, and importing it into an analysis software for high-quality tetrahedral meshing. The final meshed model is prepared for Finite Element (FE) and impact analysis.