Automated Full Trajectory Aero-Thermo-Mechanical Simulation Coupling for Hypersonic Flight

Spectral Sciences, Inc., in collaboration with GoHypersonic Inc., proposes to develop a framework for linking high-fidelity aerothermal gas flow simulations and nonlinear thermomechanical finite element analysis (FEA) for hypersonic vehicles through streamlined and automated mapping of results between the models. This effort will include the selection of an appropriate material model for simulation of anisotropic heat conduction and radiation, persistent shape change associated with both thermal and mechanical loading, and potential material failure under such conditions. This effort will leverage SSI’s extensive experience with aerothermal modeling of hypersonic vehicles with US3D with extensions, including the Trajectory Ablation and Shape Change plugin. Phase I will develop a detailed plan for coupling the two codes and demonstrate the one-directional coupling between US3D and FEA with a representative 3D vehicle and material. Phase II will develop the full prototype mapping between the two simulations and further streamline the process through a user-friendly software module that automates  both simulations. This effort will greatly simplify the simulation process, thereby reducing the labor required to run an aero-thermo-mechanical simulation over a full hypersonic flight trajectory.