Simplified Design Method for Braced Double-Skinned Structure in Lunar Application

Abstract

A simplified design methodology is developed for the preliminary design of a proposed braced double-skinned roof structure for lunar applications, using Navier's and Levy's plate solutions. A finite-element analysis of the structure is performed to evaluate the accuracy of the design methodology. Results from extensive parametric studies are used to select the final dimensions of the braced double-skinned roof assembly for realistic static loading. The natural frequencies of the proposed roof structure are evaluated by a simplified relation and are compared with those obtained by the finite-element method.