Browse Topic: Finite element analysis

Items (3,796)
The compensation rope is a special steel wire rope used as a driving component in the ratchet device. The compensation rope will endure severe random cycling loading during service time, which will lead to fatigue failures and catastrophic disasters. Experimental studies are hard to mimic the practical working conditions and time consuming, therefore, this study establishes a finite element model of the compensation rope and simulates the stress distribution under axial tensile and bending loads. Fatigue life is analysed based on both stress and strain fatigue theories under alternating tensile and bending loads. The results indicate that under axial tensile loads, the stress in the outermost wires of the core strands of the compensation rope is the largest, with the minimum fatigue life. As the stress ratio of the alternating tensile load increases, the fatigue life also improves due to smaller stress amplitudes. Under the conditions of bending loads, the outermost wires of the
Du, FeiCong, JiajiaBian, HaoxiangZhu, JunchenZhao, Aiguo
In order to improve the crashworthiness of UAVs, this paper improves and designs a wheeled UAV structure from a traditional quadrotor platform, focusing on its drop impact response characteristics. Aiming at the drop impacts that wheeled UAVs may face during flight and landing, this paper systematically investigates the structural response of UAVs under different drop conditions based on the display dynamics theory. By establishing a refined finite element model containing a tyre cushioning system and using ANSYS/LS-DYNA finite element simulation, the maximum equivalent force distribution law with or without wheels, at different drop heights and multi-angle attitudes, is analysed. The simulation results show that the presence of wheels significantly changes the drop impact stress transfer path and reduces the risk of damage to critical parts of the fuselage. This study provides a theoretical basis and engineering guidance for the impact resistance design of wheeled UAVs.
Huang, HuanyeShi, HuiXu, NingYu, BomingZhu, Danning
As high-speed train technology advances, the demands on braking system performance have intensified. Known for their efficiency, reliability, and eco-friendliness, Linear Eddy Current Brakes (LECB) have become a focal point in the research and development of high-speed train braking systems. This paper presents an innovative Orthogonal Excitation Eddy Current Brake (OEECB), which enhances the braking force without modifying the overall dimensions of the conventional LECB. By adding a set of longitudinal excitation coils parallel to the rail surface, the OEECB creates an orthogonal excitation structure that augments the braking force. Initially, this paper outlines the design concept of the OEECB and then analyzes its working principle based on electromagnetic field theory. Subsequently, a finite element solver is employed to numerically model the electromagnetic characteristics of the OEECB. Finally, by comparing the performance differences between the conventional LECB and OEECB, the
Huang, LiuwenZuo, JianyongZhang, Yu
Traditional mechanical continuously variable transmission (CVT) has a complicated structure. During the transmission process, the master and slave wheels rub against each other to produce chattering and heat loss, and the master and slave wheels are seriously worn. In order to improve the transmission efficiency and reliability of continuously variable transmission, Automotive magnetic CVTs (Manetti Continus, Livaria, Breitlans, Mack) were used as research objects. By establishing the efficiency model of key parts, the relationship between the efficiency of each component and different parameters is transformed and calculated, and then it is optimized using Matlab. The finite element analysis of a permanent magnet eddy current speed regulating device is carried out by using finite element Ansys Maxwell, and the relationship curve between the average meshing area and each parameter is analyzed. The results show that the volume of the optimized gear train is reduced by about 51.7
Zhou, DanZhang, Bolin
This article investigates high-frequency noise in permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs) for electric vehicles, originating from pulse width modulation (PWM). A theoretical model is developed to formulate the phase voltage under space vector PWM (SVPWM), explicitly accounting for the additional harmonic components generated by the discrete-time voltage update in digital control systems. This derived voltage waveform serves as the excitation source in an electromagnetic finite-element model, from which the PWM current harmonics and their resulting high-frequency electromagnetic forces are computed. Critical components of the electromagnetic force are then extracted through two-dimensional Fourier transform. A structural model of the motor, incorporating practical assembly constraints, is established and validated by experimental modal tests on a fully assembled motor unit. To enable rapid noise prediction over the wide speed range, vibro-acoustic transfer functions are introduced
Lin, FuChen, Yihui
The reduction of heavy rare earth elements such as dysprosium and terbium, which are associated with high cost, geopolitical risk, and sustainability concerns, is a key objective in the electromagnetic design of interior permanent magnet synchronous machines (IPMSM) for traction applications. Since these elements are the primary contributors to magnet intrinsic coercivity, their minimization increases the risk of irreversible demagnetization of the permanent magnets. In IPMSM designs with reduced heavy rare earth content, it is therefore necessary to operate close to the demagnetization limit of the permanent magnets and accurately identify them. Consequently, a precise and reliable finite element method (FEM) based prediction of demagnetization robustness is essential for systematic and material efficient machine design. This paper investigates the key factors required for reliable assessment of demagnetization robustness in IPMSM using electromagnetic FEM. Unlike existing literature
Malner, MaxNaumoski, HristianGretzinger, StefanIzquierdo, PatrickKulzer, Andre Casal
This paper investigates the electromagnetic and circuit-level performance of an inductive power transfer (IPT) system for dynamic wireless charging of electric vehicles (EVs). Key design parameters affecting power transfer efficiency (PTE) are examined through a simplified Series–Series (SS) compensated IPT model using a Double-D coil geometry with shielded ferrite backing, developed in MATLAB. The framework evaluates the effects of air gap, lateral misalignment, load resistance, and operating frequency on overall system efficiency. Results show that PTE is highly sensitive to spatial alignment, with significant efficiency losses at air gaps greater than 10 cm and misalignments beyond 15 cm. A combined 3D surface plot confirms the compounded nonlinear influence of both parameters. Load resistance analysis identifies an optimal range of approximately 10–15 Ω, while frequency analysis indicates peak performance near 85 kHz, consistent with standard guidelines. These findings validate
Abdelrahman, MarwanSodre, Jose Ricardo
This paper presents the optimization of a Halbach magnet array applied to an axial flux machine (AFM) in a 12-pole, 18-slots yokeless and segmented armature (YASA) topology, evaluated in the torque–speed characteristics diagram. AFMs offer significant advantages in terms of compact design and high torque density compared to other permanent magnet machine topologies. However, noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) performance is strongly influenced by cogging torque, electromagnetic torque ripple, and tooth forces. While Halbach magnet arrays are well established in high-performance radial flux machines, only limited research has investigated their influence in AFMs. A Halbach array concentrates magnetic flux on one side of the magnet arrangement, leading to increased air gap flux density and a strongly reduced need of a back iron yoke under the magnets. By using a Halbach array, the magnetic field distribution in the air gap becomes more sinusoidal, thereby reducing harmonic components
Müller, KarstenSchulz, FabianBremer, MartinBurkhardt, YvesDe Gersem, Herbert
Recent studies indicate that the door system plays a significant role in the interior noise levels of newly developed vehicles. This research investigates the noise transmission paths through the door system and identifies effective strategies for improvement through a combination of door buck testing and simulation. Specifically, in this study, the finite element method (FEM) was employed for door buck simulation, and the model was validated against vibration test results. Subsequently, acoustic analysis tools were utilized to correlate with noise testing, thereby establishing a process to ensure simulation accuracy. The sound insulation performance for the main areas of the door was experimentally evaluated, and a simulation model with good correlation to these test results was developed. By utilizing both experimental and simulation results, the principal transmission paths were identified, and appropriate improvement strategies for these paths were investigated. The validated
Chae, Ki-SangJang, JinungJeong, HojungDo, HyuncheolHan, JinwooYi, JaebokBak, Seong-JaeJeong, ChanHee
Achieving favorable Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) and durability performance in vehicles requires sufficient static and dynamic stiffness of the Body-in-White (BIW). Virtual development of BIW performance targets during the early design stages is essential to minimize costly modifications in later phases. In the automotive industry, full-scale finite element models are widely used for this purpose, offering high fidelity and enabling comprehensive performance evaluations. However, their complexity and high computational cost limit their practicality for early-stage sensitivity and optimization studies. Beam-based models offer a faster alternative; however, conventional beam formulations based on Euler–Bernoulli or Timoshenko beam theories often fail to capture the complex deformation behaviors of thin-walled structures, which are typical of BIW designs. This typically results in poor correlation with detailed models unless artificial joint flexibility is introduced at
Kim, Jin HongGang-Won, Jang
Vehicle electrification and increasing demands for driving comfort present significant challenges for designing effective noise control treatments (NCTs) in modern vehicles. Lightweight, low-emission designs often compromise acoustic efficiency. A popular and efficient way of compensating for this is through the use of multi-layer ‘trim’ material configurations to noise radiating surfaces to mitigate noise across a wider frequency range. Traditional 3D finite element models, while accurate and even needed to capture the full dynamic behaviour, become computationally prohibitive for complex automotive structures like firewalls, which feature intricate shapes, high curvature, and material compression. This computational burden limits design exploration and timely noise performance predictions. To overcome these limitations, this paper presents an innovative adaptive higher-order finite element method to evaluate the sound transmission loss (STL) of automotive, including the effect of
Van Genechten, BertVansant, KoenPurohit, BimalEffinger, Veronika
The vibro-acoustic performance of a vehicle is a critical factor in customer perception of quality and comfort, yet optimizing for Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH)—specifically road noise—presents a persistent challenge in the modern automotive development cycle. While advanced Finite Element Method (FEM) analysis is essential, the increasing complexity and volume of CAE simulation data often overwhelm manual interpretation, potentially leading to prolonged development times or compromises in final comfort quality. To address these challenges, this paper introduces the application of CDH/ACE (Autonomous Computational Experiments), a framework that integrates conventional CAE simulation workflows with advanced machine learning in an iterative, cyclic process. This creates an exceptionally user-friendly and self-correcting system that autonomously defines, performs, and learns from computational experiments. By leveraging machine learning algorithms to build robust predictive models
Visser, Rene
The simulation of structure-borne energy flow within a full vehicle trimmed body at mid and high frequencies has always been a challenge due to the large computational cost associated with standard deterministic simulations. This is a particularly pressing problem given that the electrification of the vehicles is extending the presence of structure-borne sources to higher frequencies. While the improvement of computational hardware has allowed OEMs to shift the limit of standard Finite Element (FE) approaches to higher frequencies, no methods have been proposed in the literature that tackle the full frequency range for industrial-sized problems. In this paper, a simulation methodology that uses wave-based processing of the original low-frequency finite element input deck to compute the coupling loss factors is proposed to model structure-borne noise in complex systems at mid and high frequencies. The methodology is validated against numerical and experimental data.
Errico, FabrizioLegault, JulienMordillat, PhilippeZerrad, Mehdi
Recent advancements in system-level NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) development methodologies have improved target cascading and enabled more efficient system-level optimization. Dynamic substructuring facilitates the virtual integration and modification of multiple subsystems and the prediction of changes in overall transfer functions. In practical automotive applications, advanced frequency-based substructuring has been applied to virtually modify system parameters, such as mass and stiffness, at multiple points in a target system, allowing prediction of the resulting effects and optimization of parameter changes without physical intervention. This study extends the methodology by introducing an enhanced substructuring approach capable of addressing not only basic parameter modifications but also large-scale structural changes. The proposed process involves identifying the characteristics of a base system assembly and a target subsystem, decoupling the subsystem from the
Cho, MunhwanBoelens, JelleReichart, Ronde Klerk, DennisAhn, Jiho
For analysing flow and acoustic induced structural vibration, a fully run time coupled framework combining a hybrid CFD-CAA approach with a modal response simulation was validated and presented at the ISVNH 2022 (SAE Technical Paper 2022-01-0938). In this paper i We apply this CFD–CAA–modal coupling method to a series-representative bonnet geometry and demonstrate its capability to capture flow and aeroacoustically driven vibration with two-way coupling. ii We analyse the modal properties of the bonnet and show that confined air volumes beneath the bonnet can introduce significant fluid loading effects, which are already embedded in experimentally validated FE modal models and must therefore be treated carefully in two-way coupled simulations. iii We validate the fully coupled aeroelastic simulation against wind-tunnel measurements with undisturbed inflow, show close agreement with the measured vibration response and analyse that the dominant excitation is in this case from below the
Schwertfirm, FlorianOcker, JoergHartmann, Michael
The rapid electrification of the automotive industry introduces new challenges in noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). In particular, in a virtual prototyping phase of the e-vehicles development, the rubber mounts are often one of the key elements to be considered when analysing the structure borne noise contributions. Having an accurate experimental characterization of the mount dynamic stiffness curves is therefore very relevant. However, conventional mount characterization methods are often pushed to their limits, partly due to the use of stiffer bushings, and partly because the frequency range of interest is extended toward higher frequencies. When using inverse substructuring, the dynamic stiffness curves can be obtained from frequency response function measurements. The required test setup consists of excitations and responses, located on each side of the mount via dedicated fixtures. The measured frequency response functions are reduced into 6 degrees of freedom representation
Bianciardi, FabioForrier, BartMinervini, DomenicoBarbieri, MarcoJanssens, Karl
Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) performance is critical in the automotive development process, yet identifying the true root causes of unwanted dynamic behavior remains a challenge in full vehicle or system-level finite element (FEM) models. This work demonstrates how Frequency Based Substructuring (FBS) provides an efficient framework for understanding NVH phenomena and facilitates new root cause analysis (RCA) types and processes. To begin, we prove the numerical accuracy of the FBS algorithm deployed in the presented investigation by comparing its results with those obtained with superelements and without substructuring. We point out that because the used FBS process starts with a modal representation of the components rather than their frequency response functions (FRF) a different class of RCA type becomes available. Then we introduce new RCA types starting with an analysis named Modal Influence (MI) that reveals the effect of the modes of any component on a certain response
Herbst, Markus
Reconstruction of acoustic radiation from vibrating structures is central in vibroacoustics, as full-field sound information is essential for identifying radiation mechanisms and improving structural-acoustic performance. Conventional microphone-based measurements are limited by spatial sampling constraints and high experimental cost, while purely numerical approaches such as Finite Element Method (FEM) simulations offer flexibility but are strongly affected by parameter uncertainties, discretization errors, and imperfect boundary conditions. To overcome these drawbacks, this work develops a hybrid time-domain framework to reconstruct the radiated acoustic field by coupling vibration measurements to a FEM-based vibroacoustic model. The FEM model is reduced using Krylov subspace projection, yielding a compact state-space representation that captures the dominant vibroacoustic modes while remaining computationally efficient for sequential data assimilation. The acoustic radiation domain
Dong, LuyaoCai, YinshanDenayer, HervéDeckers, Elke
Electric vehicle subsystems, including powertrains, electric motors, and gearboxes, pose new challenges in achieving stringent acoustic performance targets for both interior and exterior noise. These challenges are intensified by increasingly demanding customer expectations regarding interior acoustic comfort, which encompasses the reduction of intrusive noise sources and the enhancement of overall sound quality across a broad frequency spectrum. A primary concern associated with electric vehicles subsystems is the generation of high-frequency tonal noise, commonly referred to as whine noise, which can significantly impact acoustic performance and passenger comfort. High-frequency whine noise propagates through multiple transmission paths and can be effectively attenuated at the source through encapsulation strategies, which also contribute to broadband noise reduction across a wide frequency spectrum. To predict the acoustic performance of encapsulation, a coupled simulation approach
Amichi, KamelCalloni, Massimiliano
This paper presents an analytical model for three-phase Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSMs) based on Magnetic Equivalent Circuits (MECs). The approach combines a reduced magnetic network, formulated in the complex domain to simplify the mathematical development, with an offline parameter estimation procedure systematically applied for different harmonic orders. This enables the model to capture the spatial dependence of permeance variations and reproduce inductance and magnetic flux nonlinearities, while maintaining generality, physical interpretability, and computational efficiency. Numerical simulations are compared with Finite Element (FE) results to validate the model’s ability to predict current and torque harmonics and the resulting radial electromagnetic forces, demonstrating its suitability for fast Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) analysis and vibroacoustic optimization.
Luciano, LudovicaDoria-Cerezo, ArnauSalamone, Nicolò
By using a fully trimmed vehicle body as flexible body, imported through a Modal Neutral File (MNF), in a complete vehicle Multibody Dynamics (MBD) analysis, the simulation setup gets considerably closer to the test conditions compared to only using a linear Finite Element Method (FEM) approach. Since the MBD analysis includes gravity, rigid body modes of the vehicle and the nonlinear behavior of the wheel suspension, it brings the correlation between simulation and test to a new and more comprehensive level. As correlation criteria, the results of the so-called Multi Stethoscope (MSS) are used. The MSS captures the time history of distortion in all body openings and cross sections and enables a detailed stiffness evaluation of the body using the so-called Opening Distortion Fingerprint (ODF). The ODF gives the quasi-static response while the Operational Deflection Shape (ODS), which is another result of the MSS measurements, reflects the dynamic response. Apart from the different
Lindkvist, LisaOlger, EmmaPiiroinen, PetriKarypidis, JohnPena, MiltonBäcklund, JesperAppelgren, PeterMarberg, HenrikUgale, PravinWeber, Jens
This study presents a high-fidelity NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) analysis model development process for EV traction motors. The proposed process consists of two main components: Path advancement through structural stiffness tuning, and Source advancement, focused on the motor’s excitation mechanisms. Model accuracy was validated through comparison of simulation results with dyno experiment data, with particular focus on the 24th-order electromagnetic vibration observed in an 8-pole, 48-slot motor. Path advancement was achieved through modal correlation between experimental results and finite element (FE) analysis. Nine modal experiment and simulation stages were conducted, ranging from individual components to the complete motor assembly. Mode shapes were compared using the Modal Assurance Criterion (MAC), and natural frequencies were matched within a 5% error margin by adjusting FE material properties. For the 24th-order electromagnetic vibration, simulation results agreed with
Kim, DongheeKim, Dong-JunLee, SangHanKim, Seon HyeongHwang, Seung GyuValente, GiorgioParisouz, ShahriarHalse, Christopher
In this study, we propose a methodology for predicting the acoustic modes and natural frequencies of a sedan using artificial intelligence and demonstrate the feasibility of controlling its acoustic characteristics by modifying the hole distribution of the package tray. In typical sedan structures, the cabin cavity and trunk cavity are acoustically coupled through holes in the package tray. The distribution of these holes significantly affects the natural acoustic modes and frequencies of the vehicle. However, once the exterior shape of the vehicle is finalized during the design stage, options for structural modifications to mitigate noise issues caused by these modes become extremely limited. To address this challenge efficiently, we develop a deep learning-based neural network model trained on data derived from a simplified acoustic analysis model of a sedan that includes a package tray. Finite element analysis is performed to generate acoustic modes and natural frequencies, which
Lee, Jin WooCho, JaehoNam, YounsicHan, Yongha
Acoustic user interfaces and audio experiences are among the leading comfort factors in new vehicle interior designs. OEMs are more and more focusing on loudspeaker design and positioning, to provide the most immersive experience to the customers. The industrial target is to be able to predict the performance of an audio system in early design phases. This paper presents an integrated vibro-acoustic methodology enabling early-stage prediction of loudspeaker performance in real vehicle conditions. The approach combines electromechanical characterization, a hybrid loudspeaker calibrated model valid across the audible range and coupled FEM/BEM/SEA simulations to capture the loudspeaker response in the vehicle’s cabin considering door-installation effects and cabin acoustics. The method is validated experimentally on a rear-door loudspeaker installed in a production vehicle, showing strong correlation with measured SPL. A final application case demonstrates its capability to assess the
Zerrad, MehdiErrico, FabrizioMordillat, Philippe
In the automotive industry, controlling noise transmission through vehicle components is essential for passenger comfort and regulatory compliance. Traditionally, Transmission Loss (TL) is estimated using simplified CAD-based metrics, which lack accuracy at high frequencies and for complex assemblies. Modeling complex vehicle components introduces challenges, such as representing fluid-structure and trim interactions, with spatially varying trim thicknesses. This study presents an industrial application implementing the Virtual SEA (Statistical Energy Analysis) method to evaluate TL for a firewall. The study discusses strategies for subsystem adaptation and analytical trim modeling, highlighting the importance of managing spatial averaging effects. The proposed workflow integrates laboratory measurements of trim materials, advanced subsystem definition, diffuse sound field (DSF) excitation and radiation in free-field condition. Virtual SEA results are systematically validated against
Orselli, JosephJacquemin, GaetanPark, MyeongMan
This article presents a novel finite element modeling approach to predict the mechanical response of jellyrolls in large-scale explicit crash simulations up to the experimental occurrence of internal short-circuit. The proposed simplified layered model embeds membrane elements within a solid element mesh to improve the prediction in load cases dominated by the buckling and sliding of the jellyroll’s layered structure. The model was validated against experimental results from in-plane, out-of-plane, and bending tests on jellyroll samples extracted from prismatic lithium-ion cells. The experimental results confirmed the jellyroll’s high compressibility under out-of-plane loads and its behavior as a collection of unconnected layers under in-plane and bending loading. Compared to the widely used crushable foam model, the simplified layered model offered additional flexibility, especially for in-plane and bending load cases. Additionally, it meets critical time increment requirements for
Cioni, DanieleMorin, DavidStrating, ArjanKizio, StephanCostas, Miguel
Alloy wheels are essential safety components in two-wheeled vehicles. This study details the finite element analysis (FEA) used to simulate and evaluate the wheel and tire performance under the double mass impact load specified by the AIS-073 (Part-1) standard. The impact is carried out by dropping a striking mass along with a main mass onto the alloy wheel–tire assembly, as per the standard. The alloy wheel is modeled using a three-dimensional finite element model with elastic-plastic material behavior, and the tire is modeled with its internal elements (e.g., carcass, belt, etc.). The prediction of wheel impact failure is based on the total plastic work of the ductile fracture mechanism. The validity of results is confirmed by comparing the predicted permanent lateral rim deformation against the measured lateral deformation from a corresponding physical test.
Minz, Jai ShankarSingh, Sanjay KumarNirala, Deepak Kumar
This study presents a comprehensive methodology for optimizing critical UAV structural nodes—specifically Arm Clamps, Landing Gear, and Motor Mounts—using Generative Design (GD) tailored for Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) with PLA+. Traditional “plate-and-standoff” UAV constructions often utilize orthogonal geometries that induce stress concentrations and fail to leverage the geometric freedom of additive manufacturing. Furthermore, reliance on expensive CNC machining or injection molding creates supply chain bottlenecks for custom or short-run UAV production. While FFF offers geometric freedom, applying it to structural airframe parts introduces challenges regarding anisotropy, layer adhesion, and material brittleness. This research optimizes these components for standard commercial 3D printers by strictly enforcing manufacturing constraints, including a 40-degree maximum overhang and a 0.4 mm nozzle size, to ensure printability without internal support structures. A significant
Krishna Bansal, Vaibhav
Dynamic responses at critical locations of a spacecraft due to excitations expected during the ascent phase of a launch vehicle mission are usually estimated through a Coupled Loads Analysis (CLA) using the structural dynamic finite element model of the launch vehicle coupled with that of the spacecraft. Generally, the full physical structural dynamic model of a spacecraft has lakhs of degrees-of-freedom (DOFs). Coupling such a model with a similar model for the launch vehicle results in exorbitantly high computational costs for CLA. Hence, dynamic analysis of such large and complex structural assemblies usually employ sub-structure coupling or Component Mode Synthesis (CMS) methods. The most widely used CMS method for dynamic analyses is the Craig-Bampton (CB) method. Conventionally, a full launch vehicle CLA involves one level of CB-reduction wherein a reduced-order dynamic model of the spacecraft is first generated using the fixed-interface CB-method. This reduced-order model is
Ramachandran, Nirmal
Porosity in carbon fibre reinforced polymers (CFRP) remains a critical concern for aerospace engineers, as even minor voids introduced during manufacturing can undermine the reliability of structural components. This work explores the influence of Interply porosity on composite panel behavior, employing a multiscale simulation approach that bridges material characterization and full-scale structural analysis. The study begins with virtual coupon testing using Digimat-VA and Digimat-MF, enabling the prediction of material allowable and the assessment of defect variability. Homogenized material properties derived from these simulations are then applied to detailed panel models constructed in MSC Apex, ensuring accurate representation of layup and orthotropic behavior. The workflow can support a range of structural load cases, allowing for the evaluation of stiffness, buckling, or other relevant scenarios as dictated by aerospace certification requirements. Nonlinear finite element
Savane, VishalKumar, Rajat
Grid fins are non-conventional aerodynamic lifting and control surfaces which are made of a frame supporting lifting surfaces positioned in the form of a lattice structure. Grid fins are also called as lattice fins and are used as control surfaces in launch vehicles, crew escape systems, missiles etc. to achieve static stability. Each panel of the grid fin acts as fin and it produces force which increases stability of the vehicle. For a crew escape system module, grid fins are used as a passive aerodynamic control surfaces to achieve static stability. Grid fins are positioned at the end of crew escape system module to provide required static margin by increasing moment arm. In contrast to conventional fins, grid fins incorporate a distinctive waffle-like pattern or grid pattern configuration, offering superior aerodynamic performance in supersonic regimes and enabling compact storage in stowed position during launch followed by deployment at the time of exigency. In case of an
Mali, Somanath NanduSundar Raj, RSundaresan, MKR, Suresh
Digital engineering practices in aerospace increasingly require closely connected and traceable analysis workflows rather than isolated finite element tasks. Traditional FEA methods remain effective, but they involve considerable manual effort during pre- processing and post-processing, making rapid iteration difficult. Finite Element Analysis of STructures (FEAST), an indigenous finite element analysis software developed by Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) ISRO, offers structural analysis capabilities through a command-based architecture, yet its manual operation limits its use in automated studies. This work develops a flexible scripting-driven framework that links geometry creation, load-case definition, solver execution, and result interpretation within a unified digital engineering pipeline. The framework automates repetitive tasks, incorporates Design of Experiments (DoE) for systematic parameter variation, and supports sensitivity and automation studies. Its performance is
Gupta, ShivangiT J, Raj ThilakP, Deepak
The study proposes the use of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) sandwich composites configurations for structures interfacing cryogenic tankages. To address the design challenge posed by high thermal contractions in metallic tanks after cryogenic propellant filling, the study incorporates slits near the tank interfaces. Additionally, to minimize the transfer of cryogenic temperatures into these interfacing parts, the sandwich structure features interface end attachment made of thermally insulating Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastic (GFRP) material. Analytical and Finite Element (FE) studies were conducted on a typical cylindrical cryogenic intertank structure to demonstrate the proof of concept. These studies included analytical design using MATLAB based codes, parametric analyses with simplified shell element models and detailed 3D sector models using solid elements. The parametric studies assessed the effects of the number and dimensions of slits to achieve an optimal design, while
Bhalerao, Sandesh PopatGupta, Yogesh KumarMadhukumar, P.
The payload fairing of a launch vehicle is subjected to extremely high acoustic loads, with peak levels occurring during lift-off and transonic aerodynamic regimes. The external acoustic field penetrates the fairing, producing intense internal sound pressure levels that can challenge the integrity of spacecraft components. Accurate characterization of the vibroacoustic behavior of the payload fairing and its enclosed cavity is therefore essential to ensure spacecraft survivability. The internal acoustic field is governed by the coupled dynamics of the fairing structure and the spacecraft configuration, making it critical to quantify the acoustic environment for different payload arrangements. This study presents a detailed vibroacoustic analysis of a payload fairing with multiple spacecraft configurations to evaluate the resulting internal sound pressure distribution. Vibroacoustic finite element analysis is employed in the low frequency range, while statistical energy analysis is
S R, Arun RajJayan, MahindGeorge, P
Launch vehicle structures are designed to withstand flight loads while fulfilling their intended functional requirements. Most of these structures use cylindrical geometries and employ stiffened configurations—such as isogrid, orthogrid, or skin-stiffened designs—comprising multiple long panels to efficiently carry dominant compressive loads. Traditional FE analyses generally use simplified or idealized imperfection models, which often do not represent the imperfections present in actual hardware and therefore tend to over/under-predict load-carrying capacity based on the initial assumed imperfection level. In reality, long stiffened panels are highly sensitive to geometric imperfections introduced during manufacturing. These include spring-back effects from roll bending as well as deviations accumulated during assembly. Such manufacturing-induced variations can significantly diminish the effective load-bearing capability of the structure. The subject hardware—an isogrid cylindrical
Sharma, AmitSingh, NishantXavier, ShijoR, Suresh
High Cycle Fatigue (HCF) is a critical failure mode in turbofan blades, primarily driven by resonance phenomena when the blade’s natural frequency aligns with engine-induced excitations. Traditional approaches to mitigate HCF often involve geometric modifications or damping treatments, which can adversely affect aerodynamic performance or increase component weight. This study explores alternative methodologies to strategically alter the natural frequency of turbofan blades while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency and structural integrity. A novel material architecture is proposed, consisting of a dual-metallic configuration with a high-stiffness core and a lightweight, fatigue-resistant outer shell. This design enables precise tuning of the blade’s dynamic response by leveraging the contrasting mechanical properties of the core and outer materials. The dual-metallic structure shifts the natural frequency away from critical excitation zones, thereby reducing the risk of resonance
S, RavivarmanInamdar, PrachiDe, Rohit
Dynamic characterization tests play a critical role in launch vehicle applications, as they provide the frequencies and mode shapes required for refining Finite Element Models (FEM) and ensuring structural integrity. While such tests are often routine when mode shapes in orthogonal planes are well separated, practical challenges arise when modes are closely spaced. In these cases, careful test planning and execution become essential to obtain reliable results. A key factor influencing test outcomes is the boundary condition of the test article. Although free-free suspension, achieved through very low-frequency support, is theoretically ideal, it is often impractical. As a result, most dynamic characterization tests are performed with a base-fixed condition, where the properties of the supporting structure can influence the measured response. For structures with asymmetry limited to a single axis, mode shapes are typically expected to align along that axis; however, deviations may occur
Panda, Ajay KumarAvirah, Nohin KShaikh, Altafhusen
Predicting the fatigue life of threaded bolts is crucial in aerospace and mechanical assemblies where cyclic loading can cause early joint failure. Existing studies, like [1], have created S-N curves for high-strength bolts under different pretension and temperature conditions through experimentation. However, there are few numerical methods that can replicate these results, especially for bolts without pretension. This study develops and validates a finite element analysis (FEA) methodology to predict the fatigue performance of pretensioned threaded bolts under axial loading, using the experimentally derived Series-2 S-N data for M20 high-strength bolts with pretension. The approach employs a detailed 3D solid model with explicit thread geometry and a two-step transient structural analysis. This first simulates the bolt tightening process to establish a realistic preload, followed by the application of a service tensile load. Local stress distributions are analyzed to extract peak
K R, LesanthS, Suhail AhmedC, ArunvetrivelP, KrishnakumarP S, PremkumarVasantharaj, C
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