Structural analysis of components subjected to complex loading environments can be challenging to perform. ATA Engineering is at the forefront of developing effective methods to characterize these environments. Once environments are properly characterized, the loads can then be used in conjunction with appropriate analytical models to accomplish things such as design optimization, fatigue life prediction, and margins of safety generation.

A good example of complex environments is the combination of sine and random that is present, for example, in rocket engine pumps, helicopters, and propeller aircraft. Sinusoidal excitation can come from, among other sources, shaft imbalances, blade pass, and harmonics of these excitations. Meanwhile, concurrent random environments are generated by aircraft turbulence, engine combustion, etc.

The challenges with the combined sine and random environment include accurately defining the separate environments from test measurements and then designing, analyzing, and testing mechanical products to live in that environment. ATA Engineering has made progress in this area in both test and analysis. With advanced analysis and testing techniques, potential project pitfalls can be avoided. For example, overly conservative specifications can result from poor interpretation of this combined environment, which can lead to overly conservative analyses and needlessly robust structures.

ATA Engineering has developed methods for signal processing acceleration measurements to define separate sine and random environments, and analysis methods to accurately determine stress on components subjected to these environments. Through advanced filtering techniques, ATA is able to accurately separate sine and random components of the environment. These can then be used in finite element models to not only assess the stress state of a structure, but also to predict uncertainty and life. To learn more about how ATA’s expertise with projects of this nature can save you time, money, and schedule, contact us.