Date of Award
2025
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics
Department
Mechanical, Industrial and Systems Engineering
First Advisor
Arun Shukla
Abstract
The structural response of drop-stitch inflatable panels to dynamic loads was experimentally investigated. Several experimental facilities were utilized: a shock tube facility to simulate air blasts, an air gun facility to impart low-velocity projectile impacts, and an underwater explosion facility to deliver underwater explosive loads. Measurements were taken with high-speed cameras and air-blast or underwater-blast sensors as appropriate. Images were processed through Correlated Solution’s VIC 3D-9 digital image correlation software, and numerical data processed with MATLAB. Generally, results showed different behaviors than what would be expected for traditional monolithic or composite structures. These differences are suspected to be due to the compressibility of the panel, the membrane nature of the panel skins, and the inability of these structures to carry transverse shear.
Recommended Citation
Chu, Tyler, "MECHANICAL RESPONSE OF DROP-STITCH INFLATABLE STRUCTURES TO SHOCK AND IMPACT LOADING" (2025). Open Access Dissertations. Paper 4434.
https://digitalcommons.uri.edu/oa_diss/4434
Terms of Use
All rights reserved under copyright.
Comments
This dissertation contains Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and is not available.