Multifunctional Composite Grid Stiffened Launch Vehicle Fairings

Payload fairings are a critical cost and performance driver for launch vehicles. Grid stiffened construction is an efficient alternative to current composite core designs. Foster-Miller has assembled an expert team, including The Boeing Company and AlliantTechSystems, to evaluate options, develop, analyze and design a multifunctional, grid stiffened structure Key advantages to the Foster-Miller team approach include the following: Out of autoclave processing using Ultrasonic Tape Lamination (UTL), which enables consideration of both standard oven cure resins and the most advanced toughened epoxies which usually require an autoclave. Integral damping with novel material and configuration options Low shock separation - with multiple system and adhesive options Embedded wiring to deliver power for separation device activationFoster-Miller is an innovative leader in the development of new composites designs and technologies. Alliant is the original developer of fiber placement and continues to be the leading innovator of its use in many applications, specifically includingcomposite isogrids. The Boeing Company is one of the largest launch vehicle producers and the ideal partner to facilitate consideration and integration of the developed technology. (P-01426)The proposed program will yield development of a new, cost effective grid stiffened launch vehicle shroud system. There is high potential for significant cost and weight reduction on existing composite systems with options for reduced acoustic andseparation loads. All these factors are highly desirable to serve a spacecraft launch market that includes military missions and a much larger commercial business sector.