(Georgia Institute of Technology, 2002-04-26)
Rohrschneider, Reuben R.
This report attempts to bring mass estimating relations (MERs) for the conceptual design
of launch vehicles into the open, and establish a baseline for their comparison. Data was
taken from multiple design organizations from around the country and compiled into a
database that is freely available for use. To validate the equations, Space Shuttle
component masses were predicted. A percentage error was reported, with the sign
indicating the direction of the error. No single set of MERs is uniformly more accurate
than another. To improve the utility of the equations, modifications can be made to the
equations to model improved technologies, such as those used in advanced launch
vehicles. Technology reduction factors are also compiled from multiple sources. No
proof of their accuracy is available at this time. The greatest accuracy in predicting the
mass of a future launch vehicle would be attained by using the most accurate equation for
each component, and an appropriate technology reduction factor.