Advanced Structural Modeling for Fully Coupled Parachute Dynamics

Abstract

Abstract : The goal of this project has been to advance the state-of-the-art in performing fluid-structure interaction (FSI) simulations of parachute systems. This capability is being used by the Army to evaluate the dynamic behavior of new and existing airdrop systems. Airdrop systems have traditionally been designed using semi-empirical methods supplemented by extensive testing, which is time consuming and expensive. Computer simulation provides a cost effective alternative to this approach. FSI simulations of airdrop systems require coupling of computational structural and fluid dynamics models. These simulations are very computationally intensive and therefore parallel computational methods are essential. Specifics objectives addressed under this project focused on both the structural mechanics and parallel requirements; the required fluid dynamics component has been performed collaboratively at Rice University under a separate effort. The project accomplishments are classified into the following three general areas that are described in detail in this report: 1. Development of parallel structural algorithms required for FSI simulations 2. Development of new structural mechanics theory for modeling airdrop systems 3. Performance of large-scale computer simulations of Army airdrop systems