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Geometrically Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis of a Composite Space ReflectorLightweight aerospace structures, such as low areal density composite space reflectors, are highly flexible and may undergo large deflection under applied loading, especially during the launch phase. Accordingly, geometrically nonlinear analysis that takes into account the effect of finite rotation may be needed to determine the deformed shape for a clearance check and the stress and strain state to ensure structural integrity. In this study, deformation of the space reflector is determined under static conditions using a geometrically nonlinear solid shell finite element model. For the solid shell element formulation, the kinematics of deformation is described by six variables that are purely vector components. Because rotational angles are not used, this approach is free of the limitations of small angle increments. This also allows easy connections between substructures and large load increments with respect to the conventional shell formulation using rotational parameters. Geometrically nonlinear analyses were carried out for three cases of static point loads applied at selected points. A chart shows results for a case when the load is applied at the center point of the reflector dish. The computed results capture the nonlinear behavior of the composite reflector as the applied load increases. Also, they are in good agreement with the data obtained by experiments.
Document ID
20010089227
Acquisition Source
Goddard Space Flight Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Lee, Kee-Joo
(Maryland Univ. College Park, MD United States)
Leet, Sung W.
(Maryland Univ. College Park, MD United States)
Clark, Greg
(NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD United States)
Broduer, Steve
Date Acquired
August 20, 2013
Publication Date
January 23, 2001
Subject Category
Composite Materials
Meeting Information
Meeting: FEMCI Workshop 2001: Innovative FEM Solutions to Challenging Problems
Location: Greenbelt, MD
Country: United States
Start Date: May 16, 2001
End Date: May 17, 2001
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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