Structural weights analysis of advanced aerospace vehicles using finite element analysisA conceptual/preliminary level structural design system has been developed for structural integrity analysis and weight estimation of advanced space transportation vehicles. The system includes a three-dimensional interactive geometry modeler, a finite element pre- and post-processor, a finite element analyzer, and a structural sizing program. Inputs to the system include the geometry, surface temperature, material constants, construction methods, and aerodynamic and inertial loads. The results are a sized vehicle structure capable of withstanding the static loads incurred during assembly, transportation, operations, and missions, and a corresponding structural weight. An analysis of the Space Shuttle external tank is included in this paper as a validation and benchmark case of the system.
Document ID
19890062105
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Bush, Lance B. (NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Lentz, Christopher A. (NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Rehder, John J. (NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Naftel, J. Chris (NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Cerro, Jeffrey A. (Planning Research Corp. Hampton, VA, United States)