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segmented payload shroud that buckled unexpectedly

This and the next three slides show an example in which there exists an "imperfection" that can be modeled if the designer appreciates its significance. Therefore, the structure in which this "modelable imperfection" exists is not imperfection sensitive in the usual sense of that concept.

This slide shows an externally corrugated, internally ring-stiffened payload shroud that failed unexpectedly during a test.

The segmented stiffened payload shroud can buckle during launch. The skin thicknesses and external corrugation thicknesses increase in steps from tip to base of the shroud.

In a test of this payload shroud buckling occurred unexpectedly at the field joint at Station 468. As demonstrated in the next three slides, buckling can occur from non-axisymmetric external dynamic pressure that generates primarily axial compression on the leeward side of the shroud that increases from its tip to its base as the shroud bends like a beam under the non-axisymmetric dynamic pressure loading encountered during launch.

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