Project Title:

Low-Cost Analysis Tool for Concurrent Engineering Applications

92-1-11.02-4747                                                   NAS08-39831
Low-Cost Analysis Tool for Concurrent Engineering
     Applications
Huntsville Sciences Corporation
150-102 West Park Loop
Huntsville, AL  35806
James V. McAnally                                    (205-830-4747)

Abstract:

     The development of a low-cost, simple-to-use software package
to construct geometric models and grids for concurrent engineering
analysis applications is the goal of this project. The software
package will consist of an interactive CAD program to construct
the geometric model, an unstructured finite-element grid generator
to develop the computational grid network, a post processing color
graphics package for displaying the results, and interface
software which restructures the grid and sets up the required
boundary conditions for SINDA, TRASYS, and ANSYS computer
programs. The tool will be structured for an engineering work-
station with a UNIX operating system. Each software module in the
analysis package can be run in an independent mode; however, each
module will be linked with menus to permit interactive sequential
runs of the individual codes. The user will have the option to
construct a geometric model with CAD, compute a finite-element
grid network for the model, and compute structural temperature
distributions using the grid network with the finite-element
thermal analyzer (FEHEAT) or transform the grid for SINDA
application using a finite-element to finite-difference
translator. The user can also output the surface grid for a TRASYS
radiation analysis, or interpolate structural temperatures
computed with either FEHEAT or SINDA onto an ANSYS grid for
structural analysis. Operation codes will be restricted to only
those developed by the company.

Potential Commercial Application:

Potential Commercial Applications:  This tool can be used in
spacecraft and launch vehicle thermal, propulsion, and
environmental control system design; power generation system
design; electronic component design and packaging; automobile
engine cooling, lubrication, and hydraulic systems; HVAC systems;
and fire protection systems.

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