Computational Aerodynamics Modeling of the Reefed Stages of Ringsail Parachutes

Abstract

The Team for Advanced Flow Simulation and Modeling (T*AFSM) at Rice University has been using the Stabilized Space-Time Fluid-Structure Interaction (SSTFSI) they developed to model parachute aerodynamics. The complexity of ringsail parachutes requires additional techniques for successful modeling of the reefed stages. Methods developed for this purpose include sequential shape determination, which is an iterative method for determining a shape and corresponding flow field, and coupled FSI using a circumferentially symmetrized traction applied to the parachute. In addition to modeling the reefed stages, these methods provide a suitable starting point for full FSI computations. A multiscale sequentially-coupled FSI computation, together with cable symmetrization, can be used to obtain a refined structural mechanics solution where needed. Furthermore, pressure distribution generation can be used to match structural shapes to drop test observations.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 01, 2009
Accession Number
ADA505129

Entities

People

  • Jason D. Christopher

Organizations

  • Rice University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Accuracy
  • Aerodynamics
  • Air Force
  • Computational Fluid Dynamics
  • Equations
  • Fluid Dynamics
  • Fluid Mechanics
  • Geometry
  • Materials
  • Materials Science
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Mechanical Properties
  • Mechanics
  • Parachutes
  • Pressure Distribution
  • Spacecraft
  • Structural Mechanics

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Adaptive Control and Estimation with Uncertainty in Dynamic Systems.
  • Aerial Delivery - Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
  • Calculus or Mathematical Analysis

Technology Areas

  • Space