HVI-induced Stress Field: Analysis by SPH-FEM Coupled Numerical Method

Hyper-velocity impacts from micrometeoroids and orbital debris significantly threaten satellites in low Earth orbit due to high source density and impact frequency. Understanding the stress field around impact points is crucial for satellite design, structural integrity, and platform stability. This study employs a coupled Finite Element Method (FEM) and Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) approach using LS-DYNA software to simulate Hyper-Velocity Impact (HVI) effects on single plate and Whipple shielding system, leveraging the strengths of both methods without ompromising result reliability or interface continuity. Unlike previous studies focusing on SPH-FEM coupling, this study characterizes the stress field around the impact zone. Simulations compare results using two contact approaches between SPH and FEM domains: tied and hybrid element contact. Results for the single plate and the Whipple shielding system show the hybrid element contact approach’s effectiveness, with stress waves smoothly propagating and minimal reflection at internal methodologies interface.