Structural Analyses of Spacecraft Electronic Packages

Abstract

The spacecraft electronic assemblies are subjected to severe environmental conditions during testing, launching and during orbit mission. The success of the mission depends upon the proper functioning of these critical electronic modules. The structural analyses using Finite Element Methods (FEM) assure the integrity of these components. A typical box, Array Drive Electronics (ADE), for TIROS satellites [1] is discussed in this article. The NASTRAN software was used to perform the stress and modal analyses of the box assembly with five circuit boards, covers and mounting feet. The stress analysis was performed for a static solution. As a conservative loading, 3 sigma load factor was used in the calculation of the acceleration values from the random vibration test conditions. Margins of safety were calculated. Design and material changes were recommended. The mode shapes fall in to three groups as explained in the text.