AE3840 Analysis of Spacecraft Structures

Students will be introduced to solid mechanics and dynamics. The fundamentals of strength of materials and beam theory, along with stress analysis, buckling, and vibration theory, will be applied to perform structural analysis of spacecraft structures. Students will learn the finite element method and use standard aerospace industry analysis tools. Design considerations specific to spacecraft structures will be presented to examine the engineering of space structures.

Corequisite

MA2121, or consent of instructor.

Lecture Hours

3

Lab Hours

2

Course Learning Outcomes

In this course, students will demonstrate the ability to apply fundamental concepts of structural analysis to successfully complete the following tasks for an aerospace structure:

1. Identify the appropriate analysis approach and design factors
2. Derive structural loads from launch vehicle requirements and conduct loads analyses of representative structural elements 
3. Perform fundamental structural analyses, including theoretical stress and margin of safety calculations 
4. Perform finite element analyses and infer probable causes for discrepancies between theoretical calculations and test results 
5. Select materials and fabrication processes that will satisfy mission requirements