Rocket Sled Engineering Aerodynamics Analysis Tool

An engineering analysis tool (RSX) for fast and accurate calculations of the aerodynamic characteristics of multistage rocket sled vehicles at supersonic through hypersonic Mach numbers has been demonstrated in the Phase I feasibility study. Initialresults show critical shock interactions with important sled components. The proposed Phase II program will result in a rapid computational method to predict these aerodynamic characteristics including effects of the ground plane and reflected shock waves.An integrated analysis system to support the engineering aerodynamic estimates consists of a number of related databases containing expert knowledge, alternate analysis methods, design rules, experimental and computational data, historical documents, andlessons learned. This system provides easy access to the corporate memory from previous test programs so that the mistakes, successes, and experiences from the past are available to improve future programs. The method helps less experienced engineersaccomplish accurate aerodynamic analyses for future rocket sled tests with guidelines to remind them of the legacy of previous tests. RSX will increase the accuracy and speed of the aerodynamic analysis process for rocket sleds, reduce the required designmargins for the rocket sled vehicle, and ultimately reduce the risk and cost of future rocket sled tests.