Engineering topics
Publications and source records attributed to Weidman, D. J..
Capabilities of a NASA-developed structural analysis computer program, NASTRAN, are evaluated with reference to finite-element modelling. Applications include the automotive industry as well as aerospace. It is noted that the range of sub-programs within NASTRAN has expanded, while keeping user cost low.
Plans for NASTRAN, a program developed and improved over the past 13 years, were outlined in reference to a new capability of level 17. The target release date is given as December 1977 and domestic release will be through COSMIC. As an example of the improved efficiency of NASTRAN level 16, a table of CPU run time comparisons is shown.
A finite-element approach has been developed for computing nonlinear flutter characteristics of rectangular isotropic panels with stream-alined side edges, based on aerodynamic forces from supersonic two-dimensional quasi-steady aerodynamic theory. Stress distributions and panel oscillation frequencies were determined from the analysis. The finite-element formulation, solution procedure, and convergence characteristics are presented. Comparisons are made with linear flutter and large-amplitude vibration results and demonstrate that good accuracy is obtained. Non-linear flutter results are presented for effects of aerodynamic damping, length-width ratio, initial in-plane forces and boundary-support conditions. Comparisons with experimental results are also presented.
Improvements in the NASTRAN systems management office are presented. Among the improvements are the following items: (1) the FEER eigenmethod and its extension to complete eigenvalue problems; (2) the addition of a supersonic flutter package which allows gust response calculations and active control effects as membrane In addition to capabilities mentioned, an error correction information system is also introduced.
Current status and future NASA plans for the NASTRAN program are presented and discussed. Information is also presented to indicate the extent of NASTRAN use throughout the world.
The objectives of the NASTRAN computer program system are discussed. Specific reference is made to the use of NASTRAN in the space shuttle program. The use of NASTRAN by agencies other than NASA is reported. The subjects presented are: (1) planned developments, (2) capability improvements, (3) efficiency improvements, and (4) new error correction procedure.
Significant NASTRAN-related events since September, 1971 are reviewed. The present operation of the NASTRAN systems management office is described, as well as new capabilities and improvements incorporated in Level 15 of NASTRAN, and priorities for future levels of NASTRAN.
Development, maintenenace, and future capabilities of NASTRAN - NASA Structural Analysis computer program
Ballistic limit thickness of thin plate
Thin plate ballistic limit for perforation by cylindrical projectiles, using computational procedures and graphs
Response of plastic circular plate to distributed time varying loads
Corrugation stiffened and flat unstiffened rectangular panel flutter
Side edge boundary condition and transverse shear stiffness effects on orthotropic panel flutter in supersonic flow
High intensity heat and light unit containing quartz lamp elements protectively positioned to withstand severe environmental stress