The function of the Iterative Primary Structure Reduction (IPSR) project was to evaluate the practicality of utilizing alternative packaging techniques to launch a spacecraft. A model spacecraft was created based on previous missions. This spacecraft was analyzed and redesigned, via an iterative process, to determine if the alternative packaging techniques could be used to reduce the weight of the spacecraft's primary structure. The primary technique explored was packaging the spacecraft against the fairing for lateral support. The iterations consisted of a redesign and an analysis to insure that the new packaging technique supplied the necessary support for the modified spacecraft.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Kaiser, Michael Joseph
• Laskey, Eric Hernando
• Meleschi, Shangari Benin

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• 01B004M

Advisor

• Looft, Fred J.
• Zwiep, Donald N.

Year

• 2001

Center

• Goddard Space Flight Center Project Center - MQP

Date created

• 2001-01-01

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Mechanical Engineering

Rights statement

• In Copyright