Date of Award

3-14-2007

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Astronautical Engineering

Department

Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics

First Advisor

Eric D. Swenson, PhD

Abstract

Plug-and-play (PnP) satellite construction is a key component of the US Air Force Operational Responsive Space (ORS) effort. The goal of ORS is to provide mission specific satellite support by configuring and launching a satellite to a selected orbit within days of the request. One major challenge during the time limited process is to accurately predict the response of the satellite to harmonic loads that occur during launch and satellite operation. Given the time limitations, constructing finite element (FE) models by traditional methods is not currently a viable option for the ORS timeline. By implementing an approach for rapid FE model creation, we can significantly reduce the timeline from weeks to hours. The advantages to our approach include simplification of model creation, ease of design modifications, and significant reduction in the FE model creation timeline; all lending this approach for utilization within the ORS acquisition cycle.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-GA-ENY-07-M15

DTIC Accession Number

ADA469164

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