Gear walk instability studies using flexible multibody dynamics simulation methods in SIMPACK

In a variety of mechanical systems friction induced vibrations are a major concern. The aircraft landing gear is by nature a complex multidegree-of-freedom dynamic system. It may encounter various vibration modes which can be induced by brake frictional characteristics and design features. These brake induced oscillations can lead to very high loads in the landing gear and brake structure which may result in passenger discomfort and sometimes in component failure. Along with the serious fore and aft oscillations of a landing gear, often referred to as gear walk, chatter, squeal, shimmy and other vibrations in aircraft landing systems are not only annoying and disconcerting but can also affect the stability of the plane during take-off, landing, and rolling. In this paper, simulation of such an unstable and complex phenomenon during aircraft ground maneuvers is done to detect vibrations in aircraft landing gear. A commercial multibody simulation tool SIMPACK is used for this purpose. The article is based on work done in co-operation between DLR and Liebherr Aerospace.