Abstract
The International Space Station and the Space Shuttle missions require an exhaustive engineering study before any manned mission can be put into effect in outer space. Since the dynamic behavior and functionality of an entire assembly cannot be tested on earth, computer models are used as an engineering tool to be able to predict what will happen in outer space. This thesis involves research using new and modem techniques like computer modeling to help NASA engineers design the mission and understand the behavior and performance. In particular since the return to flight involves repair maneuvers of the Space Shuttle, the Space Station and the robotic arms of both, quick and simplified techniques are necessary to quickly evaluate the possible deflections, frequencies, forces and torques associated with the maneuvers. These influence directly the evaluation of the guidance and control systems. Computer models of the International Space Station missions such as Mission 1J are developed during this research using the following software: SOLIDWORK, NASTRAN 40, MATLAB and SIMULJNK. This thesis involves new methods of modeling and generating computer math models and simulation of complex space structures and mechanical systems for vibration, guidance and control analysis. Using Finite element models/data of the International Space station (ISS) and other ISS mechanical system models (e.g. Truss Assembly, Shuttle and Arm, etc). Herein is a set of developed very integrated system. A breakdown of the modeling techniques will be generated using our approach and tools for generating integrated math models and simulation of complex space structure and mechanical systems.
Using a combination of solid modeling, finite element modeling and block diagram modeling techniques for control system design, computer models of the different components of the station and the space shuttle were developed. These were assembled to form a complete model of a specified mission and conditions to be studied. The objectives that were study are the vibration mode effects and control systems. Another objective is to provide NASA engineers with new alternative methods to the ones that have been established. Using these objectives, engineering tasks can be simplified, done faster, and become more accurate. Similarly visual simulations and designs can be achieved fairly quickly and they can assist in the design and analysis of new space missions. The ability to reduce the turnaround time for NASA engineers to make new mission designs is also an objective of this research. In order to achieve this, computer models have been generated from scratch using solid modeling techniques; such models are transformed into time dependent dynamics finite element models. From these models the modes of vibration and state space models are generated to design the control systems and prevent major problems from occurring.