Variable curvature concepts for smart thermal protection systems (smart TPS)

Adaptivity is one of the most important ingredients of the concept of smart hot structure or smart thermal protection system proposed in the paper. The application of the concept of an adaptive structure with variable geometry is proposed for morphing the leading edges or the nose of a space transportation system. The design process to achieve the optimal solution start with a selection of different concept design drafting the working principle of mechanisms able to displace the structure from one geometry to the other. Then a concept analysis developed by using simple analytical evaluations based on basic mathematical models for assessing at a first level of approximation the effectiveness of the actuating mechanism. Also the level of deformation assumed by all the element of the TPS and the relevant structure will be checked to verify the possible failure and the consequent structural damage of the TPS. The analytical assessment includes an effective material research and thermal and thermo-mechanical calculations. The FEM analysis is performed to reach the complete refinement of the mechanism and the results are compared with existing benchmark solutions.