Abstract
Structure optimization techniques, which have matured over the last three decades, have been applied successfully to generate a preliminary minimum weight design of a Space Station Freedom component. The design code ‘COMETBOARDS’ which was developed by the Structural Mechanics Branch of NASA Lewis Research Center, was utilized. The component, termed a ‘short spacer truss’ of the Space Station Freedom, was modeled as a space frame, and its minimum-weight design was obtained under prescribed stress, buckling, crippling, displacement, and frequency constraints. The optimum design weight was found to be lighter than that obtained manually. The optimum design also appears to be attractive from manufacturing considerations. A description of the structural component, its design environment, behavior limitations, and the optimum-design process are briefly presented in this paper, along with a brief description of the design code COMETBOARDS that was developed for this purpose.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
