// ORBITAL LOGISTICS AND PROPULSION TERM

Structural Analysis

Structural analysis is the process of examining how a structure, like a rocket or spacecraft, will react to different forces and loads, ensuring it's strong enough to withstand the stresses of launch and flight without breaking.

TECHNICAL DEFINITION

Structural analysis is the engineering discipline of determining the effects of loads and stresses on physical structures and their components, employing computational methods (e.g., FEA) to ensure integrity, predict deformation, and prevent failure in aerospace vehicles under various flight conditions.

BACKGROUND

Redwire Corporation is an American aerospace manufacturer and space infrastructure technology company headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. The company was formed on June 1, 2020, by the private equity firm AE Industrial Partners, through the combination of its portfolio companies Adcole Space and Deep Space Systems. Redwire went public in January 2021.

READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIA

SYNONYMS & ALIASES

  • stress analysis
  • finite element analysis (FEA)
  • structural engineering

USAGE NOTE

Rigorous structural analysis is performed on every component of a rocket to ensure mission success and safety.

DEVELOPERS

Organizations developing technology related to Structural Analysis.

  • Ansys

    Develops and markets multi-physics engineering simulation software, including industry-leading tools for structural analysis (finite element analysis) extensively used in the aerospace and space industries for designing and validating complex structures.

  • Dassault Systèmes (SIMULIA)

    Provides SIMULIA, a portfolio of realistic simulation applications including Abaqus for advanced finite element analysis, which is critical for structural integrity assessment and design optimization in aerospace and space applications.

  • Siemens Digital Industries Software

    Offers a comprehensive suite of simulation and analysis tools, including NX Nastran and Simcenter, which are widely used for structural analysis, dynamic analysis, and multi-physics simulation in the design and development of aerospace components and systems.

  • Boeing

    As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing extensively employs and develops advanced structural analysis techniques and tools for the design, testing, and certification of commercial airplanes, defense products, and space systems.

  • Lockheed Martin

    A global security and aerospace company, Lockheed Martin develops and applies cutting-edge structural analysis methodologies and software for its vast portfolio of aircraft, spacecraft, missiles, and advanced technology systems.

  • SpaceX

    Designs, manufactures, and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft. Structural analysis is fundamental to their rapid development and reusability goals, driving innovation in lightweight structures and high-performance materials under extreme conditions.

  • Northrop Grumman

    A global aerospace and defense technology company that develops and integrates advanced structural analysis capabilities for its range of aircraft, autonomous systems, spacecraft, and strategic systems.

  • NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)

    Conducts extensive research and development in structural analysis, materials science, and computational mechanics to ensure the safety and performance of spacecraft, launch vehicles, and aerospace systems for human and robotic space exploration.

  • Airbus

    A global pioneer in the aerospace industry, Airbus heavily invests in and develops advanced structural analysis and simulation technologies for the design, manufacturing, and operational support of its commercial aircraft, helicopters, and space systems.

RELATED TERMS IN ENGINEERING