Design of Conical Thrust Frame Structure for LaunchVehicle with Discrete Point Loads

Abstract

The thrust mount structure of a launch vehicle has a conical thrust frame. The conical thrust frame with least thickness is a challenging design. The uniform distribution of the load from the after end of conical thrust frame to the fore end of the primary structure is  also a part of the design. The design philosophy is for the buckling of the shell. Structure should be capable of taking local loads due to the actuation and cut out of conical thrust frame for various purposes. This thesis presents analysis and design of a shell structure with discrete point loads. The design options used are monocoque,stringerstiffener.The stress analysis of a shell on discrete supports is a very challenging task. The design was done using ABAQUS software.