Making solar panels ready for lift-off

Overcoming the impact of vibro-acoustics can greatly the performance of electronic systems and devices. But it poses a complex design problem, requiring an understanding of how multiple physical properties and forces inter-relate. Hexagon helps a range of companies simulate vibro-acoustic challenges, whether they are improving a customer’s experience of a smartphone or sending a spacecraft into orbit. 

Solar panels, for example, play a critical role on spacecraft, supplying the electrical power to run the satellite sensors and electronics as well as the propulsion system. It is therefore crucial that solar panel arrays remain intact during the spacecraft’s launch.

Given the complexity of the design problem, Airbus Defence and Space, a world-leading global supplier in systems that range from electronic components to full telecommunication relay platforms, scientific satellites, and human-crewed spacecraft, turned to MSC Nastran and Actran software. Using MSC Nastran and Actran simulation capabilities, Airbus’ engineers were able to model a real-world environment and predict the vibro-acoustic response of solar panels at lift-off and optimise design.

Download the Airbus Defence and Space case study to learn more.