MSC Adams validates design strength and kinematic functionality of complex fuzing mechanisms

MSC Software Corporation today announced that System Design Evaluation Ltd (SDE), a UK Defense company, used MSC Adams for the analysis of the 25mm APEX projectile fuze, a next generation weaponry system designed for use with the US F-35 Joint Strike Fighter aircraft, leading to a reduction in development cost.

Engineers at SDE began providing computer-aided-engineering (CAE) support to the Nammo Raufoss APEX development program in 2004 during the conceptual design phase. Initial modeling and simulation work was performed using rigid body kinematic analysis software. However, increased mechanism complexity and the requirement to assess component deformations prompted SDE to search for replacement software. Numerous commercially available packages were evaluated. However, none were found to offer the flexibility of MSC Adams in terms of allowing rapid and fully integrated analysis of both the kinematic functionality, and strength of design, of complex mechanical systems.

"The APEX projectile leaves the muzzle of the 4-barrelled GAU-12 weapon with a velocity of around 1,000m/s and experiences a peak setback acceleration of almost 80,000g. Under these conditions, coupled with severe space restrictions, it is almost impossible to instrument the fuze in order to gain an understanding of the operation and interaction of the components inside. While physical testing can be used to confirm functionality of the fuze, it often provides limited information for post analysis in the event of a failure to function," said Scott Bradley, Design Modeling & Simulation Manager, SDE Ltd, UK.

"Using Adams we have been able to provide significant guidance in the design and development effort to our customers in one of the most technically challenging areas of ammunition design," said Scott."The results have reduced the number of expensive trials required and, therefore, the overall cost of the development program for the customer."

"We are very pleased that System Design Evaluation Ltd has selected Adams for such complex and critical tasks," said Kais Bouchiba, VP of EMEA Operations at MSC Software. "It is a testament to our products that they can be used to model and simulate the extreme environmental conditions of these mechanisms, and help develop such cutting edge technology."