In this analysis the structural integrity of the rotational system of a standardized roll-on, roll-off sensor pallet system was authenticated. The driving force behind this analysis was to ensure the structural integrity of the system and to locate the areas with optimization potential. This process will ideally lead to the weight reduction of individual components thereby allowing for the transportation of greater cargo during flight. Scaling down of these excessive areas will also allow for a reduced production cost and an increase in efficiency of the system.
The study was comprised of the failure susceptibility of the individual components of the system. The major results include the optimization potential of individual components, as well as strategically rating and categorizing the failure capability of the components. These specific components include the rotational shaft, offset load-carrying keyways, bolts, hubs that mount the rotational arms of the system to the shaft, and the bolt holes through which the arms are mounted to the hubs.
Throughout this analysis, a dynamic load factor was used in addition to the combined static weight of the sensor pod, arms, and sensors. The dynamic load factor allows for the inclusion of additional inertial forces applied to the system due to rotation, which will provide a more accurate prediction of the stresses created and ultimately lead to a safer design.