1941. Weight Estimating Methodology: NASP vs Other Programs
$20.00
SAWE Members get a $200 store credit each year.*
*Store credit coupon available at checkout, click the button in your shopping cart to apply the coupon.
Not applicable to SAWE textbooks and current conference technical papers.
Paper
Abstract
The intent of this paper is to explain the difference between the preliminary design weight estimation methodologies used on the National Aerospace Plane (NASP) and previous programs. Discussions focus upon issues inherent to NASP, special requirements, and other factors which drive the need for credible and accurate preliminary design weight estimates. Issues such as weight growth factors, non-optimum factors, airframe/engine vehicle integration constraints, manufacturing constraints, and incorporation of the ”illities”: Reliability, Maintainability, Supportability, and Safety (RMSS) are discussed. The design process is described, outlining die integrated approach used. This takes into account all disciplines and their individual and integrated effects upon the vehicle. The methodologies concepts are discussed as they are used on NASP with major differences between NASP and previous programs being outlined. Several charts comparing mass fractions for structures, landing gear, propulsion, and subsystems of NASP to those of previous programs are shown. These charts show where NASP is in relationship to history.
