Rocket ship
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Rocket Ship: Design, Dynamics, and Recovery Systems
Design and Construction of Rocket Retrieval Ships
Lockheed Space Shuttle Rocket Retrieval Ship
The Lockheed Space Shuttle Rocket Retrieval Ship, MV Independence, is a specialized vessel designed for the retrieval of reusable solid rocket booster casings from space shuttle launches. This 200ft ship, with a length overall of 176ft and a beam of 37ft, is equipped with twin EMD diesel engines providing 2900 shp and twin controllable pitch propellers (CPPs) for propulsion. The ship also features an aft gill thruster and a fixed tunnel bow thruster for enhanced maneuverability. The work deck area spans 3050 sq.ft., accommodating a crew of 10 and 14 retrieval personnel. The ship can achieve a maximum speed of 14.5 knots at retrieval draft, ensuring efficient recovery operations1.
Rocket Flight Dynamics and Simulation
Dynamic Simulation of Ship-Borne Rocket Launcher Motion
The motion dynamics of ship-borne rocket launchers are critical for accurate targeting and launch. Using virtual prototype technology, researchers have simplified and modeled the ship-borne rocket launcher system. By calculating the power spectral density of the ship's motion based on ocean wave energy spectrum, they have simulated the forces acting on the rocket launcher joints under various sea conditions. These simulations provide essential data for designing the aiming mechanisms of ship-borne rocket launcher systems, ensuring stability and precision during launches3.
Simulation Research on Shooting Dispersion
Further research into the shooting dispersion of ship-borne multi-function launcher rockets has been conducted using dynamic simulations. By establishing a solid model of the launcher and simulating the outer ballistic trajectory with the Monte-Carlo method, researchers have determined that the dispersion of the weapon meets campaign requirements. This research highlights the importance of accounting for initial disturbances and sea conditions in the design and operation of ship-borne rocket systems4.
Navigation and Recovery Systems
Four-Channel LIDAR Navigation System
For the recovery of rocket first stages at sea, a four-channel LIDAR relative navigation system (FCLRNS) has been proposed. This system leverages the high laser reflectivity of the ship deck in the near-infrared band to distinguish between the ship and sea surfaces. The FCLRNS provides accurate estimates of trajectory inclination, altitude, speed, and roll angle of the rocket first stage relative to the sea/ship surface. Simulation and experimental results confirm the system's reliability and accuracy, making it a valuable supplement to existing GPS and INS navigation solutions for rocket recovery5.
Structural Analysis and Stress Factors
Naval Ship Structures Exposed to Rocket Loads
The thermal and pressure loads from rocket launches can significantly impact naval ship structures. Using finite element thermal analysis, researchers have determined the temperature distribution along the ship's thickness and investigated the resulting thermal stresses. Additionally, transient structural analysis has been used to study the stresses caused by time and space-dependent pressure loads. These analyses are crucial for ensuring the structural integrity of naval ships during rocket launches6.
Finite Element Analysis of Solid Rocket Motors
The stress and strain on solid rocket motors (SRMs) during ship motion have been analyzed using finite element models. Simulations have shown that the maximum stress and strain on SRMs are within safe limits, but cumulative damage from random fatigue loading must be evaluated. Identifying critical zones and understanding stress amplitudes are essential for maintaining the reliability and safety of SRMs during maritime operations7.
Conclusion
The design, dynamics, and recovery systems of rocket ships involve complex interactions between engineering, environmental conditions, and advanced simulation technologies. From the construction of specialized retrieval ships to the dynamic simulation of launch systems and the development of precise navigation tools, each aspect plays a vital role in the successful deployment and recovery of rockets at sea. Understanding and addressing the various stress factors and initial disturbances are crucial for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of these maritime rocket operations.
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