In the past, Sikorsky had to perform expensive bird strike test programs to certify helicopter components. These tests are expensive because they require building prototype components and testing them on a very elaborate rig. For example, the rig used to test the ability of a tail rotor to withstand bird strikes uses a hydrostatic drive …
In my previous blog post I introduced the Adams-EDEM coupling that allows engineers to realistically simulate how bulk materials interact with their systems dynamics. In this post I want to give some insight on the workflow needed to use the coupling.
Fields in Patran are used whenever you need to define variable (non-constant) data. Applications include material properties, element properties, or load variations as a function of time, frequency, or spatial position. Fields are also helpful to map results between dissimilar meshes. Practical uses are briefly described below.
When developing the sub-systems of a vehicle, compromises have to be made among several contrasting objectives. On one hand, one wants to set all sub-systems – such as suspensions – so that they allow efficient and safe handling of the vehicle. On the other hand, comfort cannot be sacrificed too much. Being the support of the vehicle and providing forces necessary to control it, pneumatic tires are one of the most important components. However, it is very challenging to model them due to both their complicated composition and the materials used in their manufacturing process. On top of that, the modeling is done by suppliers and an in depth understanding of the interaction with the vehicle must be attained.
The James Webb Space Telescope is a highly sensitive instrument that is positioned using a precise optical metering support structure. This supporting structure is made from composites to reduce thermal expansion effects while reducing weight. The instrument and structure are subjected to temperatures ranging from ambient during launch to cryogenic temperatures while in orbit. Dynamic and static loads are encountered during launch and in operation respectively.
Sporadic use of advanced finite element analysis (FEA) software, such as nonlinear analysis by design engineers, can result in either excessive refresher training time or a bottleneck while in the queue for an analyst. The cause is a result of different types of solvers requiring different models. Commercially available translators can help, but still require significant amounts of cleanup. However, by integrating solvers in MSC Nastran’s SOL 600, the same model in the familiar MSC Nastran format can be used for both liner and MSC Marc nonlinear analysis.