Launch Vehicle Performance Analysis Tool

Engineering Sciences, Inc.

Huntsville, AL

A major obstacle of taking the full advantage of computational fluid dynamics tools in advanced launch vehicle design analysis lies in the complexity in setting up the computational model with appropriate model and good resolution. Engineering Sciences, Inc. (ESI) has developed cutting-edge methods and solution strategies for easy setup of geometry and models that creates refined solutions with confidence.

• Created a solution-adaptive mesh refinement method that is suitable for transient and parallel computations.
• Developed a general heat transfer model for convective heat flux prediction in the vehicle base region.
• Created an automated model setup and mesh generation procedure for complex geometry applications.
• Benchmark validated base heating and plume radiation calculations with experimentally measured data.
• Has applications to launch vehicle stage separation analysis.

• Product is a comprehensive performance analysis tool for advanced launch vehicle designs. This product will provide substantial cost saving and detailed technical information for new vehicle concepts.
• Provides technical services to major rocket engine and launch vehicle companies in supporting design and development works.


• Primary target market include NASA, DOD, and other government agencies, as well as rocket engine and launch vehicle manufacturers and research institutes.
• ESI technologies will be licensed to launch vehicle design companies. Service supports to rocket engine companies with the developed technologies will also be pursued.

• For NASA, research efforts will increase to support advanced launch vehicle design concepts.
• Currently benchmarking computational tool on several flow applications. Afterwards, the tool will be used to support NASA program offices on current projects, e.g., RS84 engine development.
• For other government agencies, new opportunities will be created in rocket/aviation technology applications.

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Curator: SBIR/STTR Support