A non-linear transient response analysis was performed to understand the modal responses of the body flap of the Space Shuttle Orbiter. The study was initiated to investigate the variation in the body flap modal responses observed during Shuttle Modal Inspection System (SMIS) tests, in which up to 25 % change in the fundamental modal frequency was observed. To understand the phenomenon, a nonlinear system at the body flap interface to the Orbiter was analytically modeled in a Rockwell enhanced version of NASTRAN on a Cray computer. Simulations of the body flap modal tests under random and sinusoidal excitation were made to understand how the stiffness and free play at the interface influence the modal responses. Two significant characteristics that influence the responses were identified as the magnitude of the angle of free play at each interface and the relative free play position of the free play angle with respect to each of the gear drive mechanisms.
Effects of a non-linear system (free play) on space shuttle body flap modal responses
Einflüsse eines nichtlinearen Systems (freies Spiel) auf die modalen Ansprechschwellen der Rumpfklappen von Raumfähren
1995
11 Seiten, 10 Bilder, 1 Tabelle, 9 Quellen
Aufsatz (Konferenz)
Englisch
Effects of a Non-linear System (Free Play) On Space Shuttle Body Flap Modal Responses
British Library Conference Proceedings | 1995
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