MODAL ANALYSIS OF A SATELLITE PRIMARY STRUCTURE USING A FINITE ELEMENT PROCEDURE.

This paper is concerned with the prediction of eigenfrequencies and mode shapes for a satellite primary structure using a finite element procedure. The analysis of a EOLE structural model having two main parts, a central tube and an equipment platform, was performed using the DYNAM program, previously developed at the University of Liege. The various problems motivated by modelling and analysis of similar structures are first discussed: mesh and element choice, static analysis of elementary parts and overall checks. The results of the final modal analysis are then discussed and compared to experimental data and previous numerical results.