Abstract
In this study, we evaluated the structural integrity and weight of a rocket motor with a torispherical dome by size optimal design. Size optimal design was achieved by first-order and sub-problem methods, using the Ansys Parametric Design Language (APDL). For rapid design verification, a modified 2D axisymmetric finite-element model was used, and the bolt pre-tension load was expressed as function of the ratio of the cross-sectional area. The thickness of the dome and the cylindrical part of the rocket motor were selected as the design parameters. Our results showed that the weight and structural integrity of the rocket motor at the initial design stage could be determined more rapidly and accurately with the modified 2D axisymmetric finite-element model than with the 3D finite-element model. Further, the weight of the rocket motor could be saved to maximum of 17.6% within safety limit.
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