The influence of changing end conditions on the resonant response of beams and plates
Approximation method for structural beam and plate resonances at elastic edge excitations
Egle, D. M.↗
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High-resolution in-beam video rate imaging with the ClearXCam for synchrotron beamlines
The ClearXCam detector is a new video rate imaging in-beam monitor based on a diamond sensor. Imaging with 2304 effective pixels is achieved by sequentially biasing one of 48 metal stripes on one side of a diamond sensor, while reading out the current from 48 stripes on the other side of the sensor. This system was characterized for real-time X-ray beam diagnostics at synchrotron beamline 17-BM at the National Synchrotron Light Source II. Significant results include: detection of in-beam structure via the imaging mode, beam focusing in one minute with real-time imaging feedback during a focusing event, linearity over five orders of magnitude, validation of a fast mode operating at 100 Hz, and sub-micron beam-positioning resolution. The system is now available commercially.
36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
Bim-to-fea Conversion Program
The purpose of this program is to enable interoperability between BIM-based architectural design software (i.e., Revit, ArchiCAD, AVEVA E3D) to structural analysis software (i.e., SAP2000). The program takes in BIM building model data via the IFC file format, automatically transforms the architectural coordination entities (structural beams, columns, slabs, walls) to structural analysis entities (i.e., finite element space frames and shells), automatically adjusts the connectivity of the structural analysis entities, and finally exports the structural analysis entities as a structural analysis model contained within a new IFC file. For example, a 3D building in Revit can be exported to an IFC file, run through this BIM-to-FEA program, then the exported IFC can be inputted into SAP2000.
Crowder, Nicholas [Idaho National Laboratory (INL)↗
Method and apparatus for minimizing multiple degree of freedom vibration transmission between two regions of a structure
Arrays of actuators are affixed to structural elements to impede the transmission of vibrational energy. A single pair is used to provide control of bending and extensional waves and two pairs are used to control torsional motion. The arrays are applied to a wide variety of structural elements such as a beam structure that is part of a larger framework that may or may not support a rigid or non-rigid skin. Electrical excitation is applied to the actuators that generate forces on the structure. These electrical inputs may be adjusted in their amplitude and phase by a controller in communication with appropriate vibrational wave sensors to impede the flow of vibrational power in all of the above mentioned wave forms beyond the actuator location. Additional sensor elements can be used to monitor the performance and adjust the electrical inputs to maximize the attenuation of vibrational energy.
Silcox, Richard J.↗
Analysis and application of a velocity command motor as a reaction mass actuator
A commercially available linear stepper motor is applied as a reaction mass (RM) actuator. With the actuator operating in the (RM) relative-velocity command mode, open-loop and closed-loop testing is performed to determine operational limits. With the actuator mounted on a simple beam structure, root strain, RM acceleration, or beam acceleration is used in the feedback loop to augment the structural damping. The RM relative position is also used as feedback to ensure that the RM remains centered.
Sulla, Jeffrey L.↗
Comparison of structural performance of one- and two-bay rotary joints for truss applications
The structural performance of one- and two-bay large-diameter discrete-bearing rotary joints was addressed for application to truss-beam structures such as the Space Station Freedom. Finite element analyses are performed to determine values for rotary joint parameters that give the same bending vibration frequency as the parent truss beam. The structural masses and maximum internal loads of these joints are compared to determine their relative structural efficiency. Results indicate that no significant difference exists in the masse of one- and two-bay rotary joints. This conclusion is reinforced with closed-form calculations of rotary joint structural efficiency in extension. Also, transition truss-member loads are higher in the one-bay rotary joint. However, because of the increased buckling strength of these members, the external load-carrying capability of the one-bay concept is higher than that of the two-bay concept.
Vail, J. Douglas↗
Validation of a Deterministic Vibroacoustic Response Prediction Model
This report documents the recently completed effort involving validation of a deterministic theory for the random vibration problem of predicting the response of launch pad structures in the low-frequency range (0 to 50 hertz). Use of the Statistical Energy Analysis (SEA) methods is not suitable in this range. Measurements of launch-induced acoustic loads and subsequent structural response were made on a cantilever beam structure placed in close proximity (200 feet) to the launch pad. Innovative ways of characterizing random, nonstationary, non-Gaussian acoustics are used for the development of a structure's excitation model. Extremely good correlation was obtained between analytically computed responses and those measured on the cantilever beam. Additional tests are recommended to bound the problem to account for variations in launch trajectory and inclination.
Caimi, Raoul E.↗
Verification of large beam-type space structures
The verification approach of large beam type space structures is verified. The proposed verification approach consists of two parts. The first part is to remove the gravity effect on the tested substructure and to identify the on-orbit dynamic characteristics of the substructure by using the measurements of the ground test. A scaling law is also established to define the critical length of the structure which can be tested in 1-g field without incurring a buckling problem. The second part is to develop an adequate scaling law to extrapolate the dynamic characteristics of the prototype structure by using results from the substructure. The verification approaches are demonstrated on two typical structural configurations, the feed support structure of a wrap-rip antenna and a candidate shuttle flight experiment. The results indicate that it is practical to verify the on-orbit dynamic characteristics of these structures by using the proposed approach.
Shih, Choon-Foo↗
Ultra-low-density digitally architected carbon with a strutted tube-in-tube structure
Porous materials with engineered stretching-dominated lattice designs, which offer attractive mechanical properties with ultra-light weight and large surface area for wide-ranging applications, have recently achieved near-ideal linear scaling between stiffness and density. Here, rather than optimizing the microlattice topology, we explore a different approach to strengthen low-density structural materials by designing tube-in-tube beam structures. We develop a process to transform fully dense, three-dimensional printed polymeric beams into graphitic carbon hollow tube-in-tube sandwich morphologies, where, similar to grass stems, the inner and outer tubes are connected through a network of struts. Compression tests and computational modelling show that this change in beam morphology dramatically slows down the decrease in stiffness with decreasing density. In situ pillar compression experiments further demonstrate large deformation recovery after 30–50% compression and high specific damping merit index. Lastly, our strutted tube-in-tube design opens up the space and realizes highly desirable high modulus–low density and high modulus–high damping material structures.
36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
The Effect of a Non-Gaussian Random Loading on High-Cycle Fatigue of a Thermally Post-Buckled Structure
High-cycle fatigue of an elastic-plastic beam structure under the combined action of thermal and high-intensity non-Gaussian acoustic loadings is considered. Such loadings can be highly damaging when snap-through motion occurs between thermally post-buckled equilibria. The simulated non-Gaussian loadings investigated have a range of skewness and kurtosis typical of turbulent boundary layer pressure fluctuations in the vicinity of forward facing steps. Further, the duration and steadiness of high excursion peaks is comparable to that found in such turbulent boundary layer data. Response and fatigue life estimates are found to be insensitive to the loading distribution, with the minor exception of cases involving plastic deformation. In contrast, the fatigue life estimate was found to be highly affected by a different type of non-Gaussian loading having bursts of high excursion peaks.
Rizzi, Stephen A.↗
Three-Dimensional Helical-Rotating Plasma Structures in Beam-Generated Partially Magnetized Plasmas
Azimuthal structures emerging in beam-generated partially magnetized plasmas are investigated using three-dimensional particle in cell-Monte Carlo collision simulations. Two distinct instability regimes are identified at low pressures. Furthermore, when the gas pressure is sufficiently high, quasineutrality is attained and 2D spiral-arm structures form as a result of the development of a lower-hybrid instability, resulting in enhanced cross-field transport. At lower pressures, quasineutrality is not achieved and a 3D helical-rotating plasma structure forms due to development of the diocotron instability. Analytical formulas are proposed for the critical threshold pressure between these regimes and for the rotation frequency of the helical structures. Preliminary experimental verification is provided.
Penning discharges↗
Automated predesign of aircraft
Program uses multistation structural-synthesis to size and design box-beam structures for transport aircraft. Program optimizes static strength and scales up to satisfy fatigue and fracture criteria. It has multimaterial capability and library of materials properties, including advanced composites. Program can be used to evaluate impact on weight of variables such as materials, types of construction, structural configurations, minimum gage limits, applied loads, fatigue lives, crack-growth lives, initial crack sizes, and residual strengths.
Poe, C. C., Jr.↗
Evolutionary Design of Controlled Structures
Basic physical concepts of structural delay and transmissibility are provided for simple rod and beam structures. Investigations show the sensitivity of these concepts to differing controlled-structures variables, and to rational system modeling effects. An evolutionary controls/structures design method is developed. The basis of the method is an accurate model formulation for dynamic compensator optimization and Genetic Algorithm based updating of sensor/actuator placement and structural attributes. One and three dimensional examples from the literature are used to validate the method. Frequency domain interpretation of these controlled structure systems provide physical insight as to how the objective is optimized and consequently what is important in the objective. Several disturbance rejection type controls-structures systems are optimized for a stellar interferometer spacecraft application. The interferometric designs include closed loop tracking optics. Designs are generated for differing structural aspect ratios, differing disturbance attributes, and differing sensor selections. Physical limitations in achieving performance are given in terms of average system transfer function gains and system phase loss. A spacecraft-like optical interferometry system is investigated experimentally over several different optimized controlled structures configurations. Configurations represent common and not-so-common approaches to mitigating pathlength errors induced by disturbances of two different spectra. Results show that an optimized controlled structure for low frequency broadband disturbances achieves modest performance gains over a mass equivalent regular structure, while an optimized structure for high frequency narrow band disturbances is four times better in terms of root-mean-square pathlength. These results are predictable given the nature of the physical system and the optimization design variables. Fundamental limits on controlled performance are discussed based on the measured and fit average system transfer function gains and system phase loss.
Masters, Brett P.↗
Component mode synthesis and large deflection vibrations of complex structures
The accuracy of the NASTRAN modal synthesis analysis was assessed by comparing it with full structure NASTRAN and nine other modal synthesis results using a nine-bay truss. A NASTRAN component mode transient response analysis was also performed on the free-free truss structure. A finite element method was developed for nonlinear vibration of beam structures subjected to harmonic excitation. Longitudinal deformation and inertia are both included in the formula. Tables show the finite element free vibration results with and without considering the effects of longitudinal deformation and inertia as well as the frequency ratios for a simply supported and a clamped beam subjected to a uniform harmonic force.
Mei, C.↗
Deployable controllable geometry truss beam
A study was conducted on a truss beam structural concept that can deploy and maneuver in a serpentine manner to align or position the truss beam tip. The truss beam is composed of a series of rod members connected together at joints that provide the required rotational degrees of freedom. The current study was conducted to evaluate the requirements of the joints and define a mechanical assembly that could provide both high structural stiffness and the required maneuverability. The truss beam requires two joint types; both types were fabricated and incorporated in a demonstration model. An analysis of the concept was performed to define the location and orientation of the beam tip during deployment and serpentine maneuvers.
Rhodes, M. D.↗
Minimum weight design of helicopter rotor blades with frequency constraints
The minimum weight design of helicopter rotor blades subject to constraints on fundamental coupled flap-lag natural frequencies has been studied in this paper. A constraint has also been imposed on the minimum value of the blade autorotational inertia to ensure that the blade has sufficient inertia to autorotate in case of an engine failure. The program CAMRAD has been used for the blade modal analysis and the program CONMIN has been used for the optimization. In addition, a linear approximation analysis involving Taylor series expansion has been used to reduce the analysis effort. The procedure contains a sensitivity analysis which consists of analytical derivatives of the objective function and the autorotational inertia constraint and central finite difference derivatives of the frequency constraints. Optimum designs have been obtained for blades in vacuum with both rectangular and tapered box beam structures. Design variables include taper ratio, nonstructural segment weights and box beam dimensions. The paper shows that even when starting with an acceptable baseline design, a significant amount of weight reduction is possible while satisfying all the constraints for blades with rectangular and tapered box beams.
Chattopadhyay, Aditi↗
Shock transmission in coupled beams and rib stiffened structures
Shock transmission in a simple coupled beam structure and in a ring-stringer stiffened cylinder is investigated experimentally and analytically using wave transmission and statistical energy analysis concepts. The use of the response spectrum to characterize the excitation provided to a simple beam by a force pulse is studied. Analysis of the transmission of a dilatation wave in a periodically stiffened plate indicates that the stiffeners are fairly transparent to the wave, but some of the dilatational energy is scattered into bending at each support.
Pope, L. D.↗
Ion beam textured and coated surfaces experiment (IBEX)
The IBEX, with 36 samples of various materials, was placed aboard the LDEF. Twenty-seven of the samples had surfaces modified using ion beam technology, and nine were made up of commercially available materials. The materials are in some way useful in space power systems. The various types of materials tested included six categories: (1) ion beam structured surfaces suitable for solar thermal (concentrator) or space radiators; (2) ion beam sputtered conductive coatings for thermal and space charge control; (3) solar reflector surfaces; (4) flexible thin film coatings and solar array blanket material for protection of spacecraft polymers; (5) painted and/or state-of-the-art solar thermal materials; and (6) micrometeoroid sensitive detector. Data analysis presented include the optical properties of each surface before and after exposure to the space environment and the respective backup surfaces.
Mirtich, Michael J.↗