Analysis
Analysis saves money! It provides confidence that a design will perform as expected when subjected to an external load.
When combined with testing, a mathematical model can safely be considered as the prime as long - as the results correspond.
The mathematical model can then be modified and re-analysed to determine the effectiveness of change, with a high level of confidence that the results will be replicated in real-life.
Money is therefore saved in the time spent and the cost of replacing failures that are not caused by flawed materials or bad workmanship, and in over-engineering which can add mass. At costs of up to €20,000 per kg for a space launch, mass can be quite an important factor.
Stress
We perform stress analysis on a part or assembly to determine if permanent deformation will occur during loading, without having to go through the expense of testing. The stress analysis will shown what is the factor of safety based on the material yield strength, and what deflection can be expected.
Modal
Modal analysis determines the stiffness, mode shape and mass participation of modes in a part or assembly. It is a vitally important analysis performed on equipment subjected to vibration to ensure against failure caused by out-of-control accelerations when two components with similar modes are located next to each other.
Thermal
Both static and dynamic thermal analysis can be performed to see how heat is transferred in a component or assembly, protecting sensitive components. In space, only conduction and radiation can be used to transfer heat, and solar radiation may need to be considered.
Vibration
Vibration testing consists of Sine Vibration at lower, stress inducing frequencies, followed by a resonance search, random vibration at increasing levels and a final resonance search. The results of all tests should be analysed before moving on to ensure nothing will break whilst being vibrated. Knowledge of what Grms increases are acceptable during testing, and what frequency and amplitude shifts are acceptable at the end of testing, comes through experience. Could you tell from the resonance search comparisons shown below?
