Simulation and structural analysis for the boom of the rocket launcher

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Design and Production Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Ain Shams University, 11535, Egypt.

2 Egyptian Armed Forces.

10.1088/1757-899X/973/1/amme.2025.449059

Abstract

The structural design of rocket launcher booms plays a pivotal role in aerospace engineering, requiring a meticulous balance between strength, weight, and durability. This study focuses on the design of rocket launcher booms by analyzing different cross-sectional geometries, including Rectangular Hollow Sections (RHS), I-beams, and their tapered variations. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was utilized to simulate and assess the performance of each cross-sectional design. Experimental validation involved testing four distinct beam types to measure stress and deformation. Results revealed strong agreement between experimental data and simulation outcomes. Tapered I-beams demonstrated superior performance among the designs, offering low weight, high strength, and minimal deflection, outperforming traditional RHS and standard I-beams. The study's primary objective was to identify the most efficient configuration that minimizes weight while maximizing strength and reducing deformation under both static and dynamic loads. The exceptional performance of tapered I-beams highlights their suitability as the best choice for advanced rocket launcher systems. This research contributes to developing more efficient and reliable launcher booms, paving the way for advancements in aerospace technology and providing critical insights for future design to enhance performance, efficiency, and safety in aerospace applications.