A simplified metric for formulating and assessing elastic launch dynamics

• A metric theory of elastic potential energy is proposed for launch system dynamics.
• Accurate assessment and practical control of separation performance are achieved.
• Ground separation tests and TianTuo-1application prove the metric-based approach.

Elastic launch devices are widely used in aviation and aerospace, whereas the accurate assessment and practical control of their dynamic performance are often complicated. We propose and validate a metric approach to simplify the launch dynamics, regardless of unstable elastic parameters and various device distributions. The nonlinear relationship between main separation parameters and elastic potential energy is derived and quantified by the defined metric, which achieves the effective assessment and control of launch process in a simple way. The metric theory is proved by the actual ground tests of a typical launch using the pre-compressed spring devices. In addition, the approach has been successfully applied to evaluate and optimize TianTuo-1 satellite launch, reflecting small errors and easy operation in practical use.