Rapid, Accurate, Satellite Structural Dynamic Modeling Methods for Responsive Space Needs

The current paradigm for structural dynamic verification of complex satellite systems is expensive, prone to error, and cannot keep pace with the objectives driving spacecraft development. The modular architecture of the Operationally Responsive Space initiative offers an opportunity to develop and validate methods for dynamic verification based on correlated component models only. The paradigm shift away from system level testing will allow a much more responsive dynamic verification processes. However, an accurate and reliable software tool is needed to 1) automate the analytical component model integration process including accurate propagation of component level uncertainties to the assembled spacecraft level and 2) systematically quantify and minimize uncertainties at structural joints inherent to component level only testing and model correlation. In this proposal Quartus Engineering details how it will clear the major technical hurdles required to implement an accurate component based verification paradigm as well as puts in place the framework on which a commercially viable verification and response prediction software tool can be built. BENEFIT: If successfully implemented, the methodology and software tools developed in this activity will eliminate the need for spacecraft system level testing of complicated structures. Component level only testing has the potential to greatly reduce the cost to fully verify a spacecraft system. Furthermore, eliminating the need for system level testing allows for much quicker dynamic verification timelines which facilitates more responsive spacecraft development overall.