Novosibirsk State Technical University (NETI) has proposed a methodology for assessing the reliability of anisogrid composite spacecraft structures to reduce their mass without losing their strength characteristics. Reducing the mass of such structures, in turn, will allow more payloads to be put into orbit.
The work is being conducted within the framework of the scientific dissertation "Reliability of mesh transformable structures in the rational design of the rib structure" by Lydia Kovalchuk, a graduate student of the Department of Aircraft Strength at NSTU-NETI.
"Mesh structures, which are widely used in rocket and space technology, are characterized by a rib structure, the elements of which are spiral and annular ribs. The anogrid structure is formed by the intersection of spiral ribs with annular ones. I have proposed a methodology for assessing the reliability of such structures — it includes an assessment of the strength, stabilit, and rigidity of the shells. The technique itself consists of several parts: calculation of the parameters of the rib structure (thickness and height, angle of inclination of the spiral rib to the generatrix, number of pairs of spiral ribs); writing algorithms for the selection of parameters; setting the task of conducting a multifactorial computational experiment aimed at studying the effect of the number of spiral ribs and the angle of inclination of the spiral ribs to the generatrix on the state of structures," the author of the study said.
According to her, because mesh shells are used in spacecraft as power elements, when launched into orbit, the structure experiences longitudinal and transverse forces, and in space it experiences torsion. Many construction and connection equipment contributes to these efforts. "Therefore, by reducing the mass of the mesh structure without losing strength characteristics, we have the opportunity to reduce fuel consumption, material consumption and, launch more payloads into orbit," Lidia Kovalchuk added.
The uniqueness of this study lies in the development of a methodology for the integral assessment of reliability during the operation (take-off and operation in orbit) of a transformable anogrid shell of an aircraft, considering a decrease in its mass.
In the photo: a mesh shell modeled in the ANSYS finite element complex.
