admin The software in the zip file was updated on December 21, 2012. A time history consisting of a series of damped sinusoids can be synthesized to satsify a shock response spectrum (SRS). A Matlab script for this is given in: damped_sine_syn.zip. The main script is: … Read more
The following Matlab files are given at: psd_syn_revD.zip psd_syn.m is the main Matlab script. The remaining scripts in the zip file are supporting functions. It synthesizes an acceleration time history to satisfy a power spectral density function. It also calculates the corresponding velocity and displacement… Read more
Here are some edited notes given to me by a colleague who is writing software programs to import Nastran data into Matlab. DMAP DMAP (Direct Matrix Abstraction Programming) is the language running under the hood in the various nastran solution sequences. All the math that happens… Read more
I will be presenting a 3-hour tutorial session at the 83rd Shock and Vibration Symposium in New Orleans, on November 4, 2012. My session is called “Shock Response Spectra & Time History Synthesis.” Students will receive basic instruction in calculating shock response spectra for time… Read more
Pyrotechnic devices such as linear shaped charge and frangible joints are used for stage and fairing separation in launch vehicles. These devices generate high-frequency mechanical shock energy. Avionics components mounted in the vehicle must be designed and tested to withstand this shock energy. Thus, ground… Read more
Listening to music releases certain neurochemicals according to psychologist Dr. Daniel Levitin. Enjoyable music stimulates the brain to release dopamine, a so-called “feel-good hormone.” Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, a chemical released by nerve cells to send signals to other nerve cells. It helps regulate emotional responses.… Read more
I am working on a commerical aircraft project for which the external fluctuating pressure along the fuselage must be predicted for cruise. I have done a preliminary literature survey. I have loosely assembled some reference data and notes in a paper: Jet Aircraft Fuselage External… Read more
(Image courtesy of R. Bowen, Colorado State University) Exposure to loud noises causes the human body to enter into “fight or flight” mode due to a perceived threat. The hypothalmus in the brain sends alarm signals to the body in response to the threat. Corticotropin-releasing… Read more
Matlab is a great programming language and environment because of its ease of use, great visualization, and rapid prototyping abilities. Matlab has a feature called MEX, Matlab Executables. See: Matlab MEX Introduction MEX files allow Matlab scripts to call user-supplied functions written in C/C++ and… Read more
The Mobile Launcher Platform (MLP) is a two-story structure used by NASA to support the Space Shuttle stack during its transportation from the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) to Launch Pad 39A at the Kennedy Space Center. It also serves as the vehicle’s launch platform. A… Read more