Autonomous & Controllable Simulation Technology for the Next-generation Solid Launch Vehicles

In view of the problems of high cost and long development cycle caused by wind tunnel tests in aerodynamic design of the solid launch vehicle, simulations are incorporated into the rocket development workflow through the extensive application of an autonomous and controllable industrial software by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology, and ground tests are greatly reduced to improve design efficiency. Many technical problems, such as the special aerodynamic characteristics of large-head-to-neck-ratio fairing, have been overcome. Focusing on the development of the SD-3 rocket, a majority of wind tunnel measurement are replaced by numerical simulations. The important roles of the simulation algorithms for the engineering design of aerodynamics, convective heat transfer and pressure fluctuation are elaborated, which provides reference for the development roadmap and strategic planning of the digital transformation of China’s next-generation launch vehicles. © 2023 China Spaceflight Society. All rights reserved.