Simplified finite element modeling method and separation dynamics of large scale fairing structure

To improve the effectiveness of the numerical study of fairing separation dynamics, simplified finite element modeling method as well as the separation dynamics of large scale fairing structure were investigated. The commercial software ADAMS/Flex was adopted to construct the simplified finite element model of large scale fairing structure. The proposed simplified finite element modeling technique was validated for different examples. Furthermore, the effects of initial elastic deformation of fairing on the translation of center of mass, the envelope of available inner space, and the hinge force were presented as well as the evolution of characteristic separation parameters. Based on the numerical results, it is concluded that (i) the proposed simplified finite element modeling technique is accurate and effective; (ii) it is reasonable to neglect the initial elastic deformation while predicting the dynamical response of the fairing system; (iii) during fairing separation, the trailing point of the cylinder is the most possible place where collision between the separated fairing section and core vehicle may occur.