Abstract
In this study, we peformed optimal design of a composite skid landing gear, one of the solid spring shock absorbers, for light vertical takeoff and landing aircraft. Although a solid spring type has poor energy dissipation capability, it is commonly used for light aircraft where sink speeds are low and shock absorption is non-critical in terms of simplicity, low cost and weight reduction. In this paper, design parameters of solid spring such as sink speed, gear leg length, deflection and landing load factor were reviewed. In order to meet structural requirements such as deflection and strength, finally, we conducted optimal design of the composite skid landing gear for VTOL UAV using genetic algorithm and pattern search algorithm.
