Dynamic Finite Element Predictions for Mars Sample Return Cellular Impact Test #4

Download or read book Dynamic Finite Element Predictions for Mars Sample Return Cellular Impact Test #4 written by Edwin L. Fasanella and published by . This book was released on 2001 with total page 28 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The nonlinear, transient dynamic finite element code, MSC. Dytran, was used to simulate an impact test of an energy absorbing Earth Entry Vehicle (EEV) that will impact without a parachute. EEV's are designed to return materials from asteroids, comets, or planets for laboratory analysis on Earth. The EEV concept uses an energy absorbing cellular structure designed to contain and limit the acceleration of space exploration samples during Earth impact. The spherical shaped cellular structure is composed of solid hexagonal and pentagonal foam-filled cells with hybrid graphite-epoxy/Kevlar cell walls. Space samples fit inside a smaller sphere at the center of the EEV's cellular structure. Pre-test analytical predictions were compared with the test results from a bungee accelerator.