Aleksander Olejnik, Piotr Zalewski, Łukasz Kiszkowiak, Robert Rogólski, Adam Dziubiński, Michał Frant, Maciej Majcher and Łukasz Omen
The purpose of this study was to analyze the possibility of using combat aircraft including decommissioned as a platform for launching and carrying space rockets with satellites…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study was to analyze the possibility of using combat aircraft including decommissioned as a platform for launching and carrying space rockets with satellites (nano and microsatellites). Thus, an airborne-launcher-to-space-system may be attractive to countries without ground-based space rocket launch sites.
Design/methodology/approach
For considered launch-to-orbit system configurations, simulations of space rocket effects on aerodynamic characteristics were performed using computational fluid dynamics (CFD ANSYS Fluent) methods. In addition, experimental studies were performed in a wind tunnel to verify the numerical simulations. Discrete models of the aircraft structure were developed for analysis using finite element method (FEM). The analysis of simulated structural properties of the models was carried out to test its stiffness and mass characteristics important for solving the static and dynamic problems of the structure. The validation analyses of aircraft models were based on mass distribution estimation and matching the stiffness properties of the individual airframe structural assemblies.
Findings
The results of numerical analyses and tunnel tests indicate that the influence of carrier rockets on the change of aerodynamic and strength characteristics of the airframe is rather negligible. The aircraft can be used as launching platforms for space rockets. Simulations have indicated that the aircraft will successfully perform a mission of taking away and launching a rocket of at least about 1,000 kg total weight with a 10 kg space payload included.
Practical implications
The combat aircraft can be used as launch platforms for space rockets, and the air/rocket set can become the equivalent of responsive space assets for countries with small space budgets.
Originality/value
The work presents original results obtained by the authors during a preliminary design of a low-cost satellite launch system consisting of a carrier aircraft and a space rocket orbiter. The possibility of using decommissioned combat aircraft as air-launch-to-orbit platforms was taken into consideration. In the absence of aircraft design documentation, reverse engineering methods and techniques were used to develop aircraft geometry and airframe strength structure. Use of CFD, FEM and simulation methods to evaluate system capabilities was demonstrated. Numerical results from CFD simulations were finally verified in experimental tests.
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Aleksander Olejnik, Adam Dziubiński and Łukasz Kiszkowiak
The purpose of this paper is to simulate with in-depth reconstruction of existing geometry a process of cooling of the aircraft engine in pusher configuration, which is more…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to simulate with in-depth reconstruction of existing geometry a process of cooling of the aircraft engine in pusher configuration, which is more problematic than usually used, tractor configuration. Moreover, a complex thermal and fluid flow analysis is necessary to verify that an adequate cooling is ensured and that temperatures in the engine nacelle are maintained within the operating limits.
Design/methodology/approach
Methodology used in this research is based on computational fluid dynamics tools to model adequately the internal and the external flow, to find the state of cooling system and research the results of baffles modification inside the engine cover. Additionally, two types of the cover with different sizes of inlets and outlets are tested.
Findings
The results showed the influence of baffles modifications and changes in inlets and outlet sizes on the mass flow rate and temperature distributions inside the engine nacelle. The best configuration of air inlets and outlets was determined.
Practical implications
The method used in the research is the safest method in testing of such cases, provided the proper approach in modeling is taken. The collaboration of internal and external flow is crucial and should not be replaced with assumed flow rate through inlet and outlet area. The obtained results will help in future studies on cooling systems of engines in pusher configuration.
Originality/value
The work presents original results obtained by the authors during a complex fluid flow and heat transmission analysis and is a part of the design project of the OSA patrol aircraft.