A Review of Spacesystem Structures Evolution and Future Challenges
- Paper number
IAC-06-C2.1.01
- Author
Mr. Vicente Gómez-Molinero, EADS CASA Espacio, Spain
- Year
2006
- Abstract
Spacesystem Structures have very deeply evolved during the last 20 to 30 years. The materials have changed from an exclusive use of lightweight alloys to a predominant use of composites. The structural constructions have also evolved, although the same basic concepts (monolithic, sandwich, gridded, etc…) have been applied. But the change is probably more spectacular in the design tools: from a very limited use of computers for design and analysis, to the current explosion of computer tools in all the product lifecycle. The manufacturing technologies have advanced, guided by those previous evolutions and the need of being cost competitive: automation, lean manufacturing and other techniques are also implemented in our prototype or low cadence series production schemes. The mechanical testing as an integral part of Verification Plans, has also had an evolution that has been quantitative – bigger and powerful testing facilities –, as well as qualitative – new types of tests – . This paper tries to do a flight over all those evolutions from the author’s personal point of view, but trying to reflect, as much as possible, a general view of the changes from an European perspective. But this flight will not land just today, it will try to follow and give an overview of the challenges and possible paths to be followed in the next future: this part will be a much more personal view and probably limited and partial. I apologize for the deficiencies and imprecisions that could arise.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-06-C2.1.01.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.