Characterizing the Role of Plasticity in Structural Response to High Speed Flows

Abstract

This paper discusses the development of a framework for characterizing the role of plasticity in the structural response of panels in high speed flows. The framework is developed around a commercial nonlinear finite element solver by incorporating CFD surrogates, for the coupled aerothermodynamic loads, in the form of user defined functions. This approach conveniently enables the study of complex built-up structural models, and the incorporation of advanced constitutive modules. The general features of the framework are provided. Also, a preliminary demonstration is carried out on the potential effect of plasticity on the fluid-thermal-structural response of a simple panel subject to both shock-impingements and severe acoustic loading over multiple loading cycles.