Build aid mod for landing struts/gear

[Vorg]

Some time ago, there was extra data added to the info for landing struts. But not much is known about it. I tried to find out more with this thread: http://forum.kerbalspaceprogram.com/threads/112727-Landing-Strut-Specs-and-what-they-can-handle

What we need is a mod like Engineer or RCS Build Aid that Will look at the craft mass/CG and Give you info about landing on a given planet for each attached gear. How fast, how much mass each gear gets at rest maybe with a curve for impact speed that show at what point they likely would fail.

Might also see about data for rover wheels as they have travel and mass limits also. Not just speed limits. Haven't looked at the new aircraft gear yet.

[Alshain]

I like this idea but I'm not sure how predictable it is. I don't know for sure, but I don't think KSP has proper traction or torque simulations, so coming up with a mathematical formula for predicting stuff like that might be quite a bit difficult.

But if someone figures out a way, I definitely support the idea.

[Vorg]

I see no need for traction modeling. If a micro landing strut will break with 50 ton craft on Eve, that should be computable. And in that example, 3 gear properly placed in relation to COM, should work up to a given landing speed. The data is there. Just need someone who decode the meaning for sure and then create the code to make it easier to use for all.

[amorymeltzer]

Wouldn't mind this either - I have no idea what that stuff even means!

[Alshain]

I see no need for traction modeling. If a micro landing strut will break with 50 ton craft on Eve, that should be computable. And in that example, 3 gear properly placed in relation to COM, should work up to a given landing speed. The data is there. Just need someone who decode the meaning for sure and then create the code to make it easier to use for all.

Oh, sorry. I thought you wanted speed limits based on mass and such. Nevermind then.

[Vorg]

No, looking for an aid to see when a ship needs larger landing gear and when it can get by with smaller ones, or if it needs more and where to handle the mass

[smjjames]

Honestly, I just go with 'does it hold (or at least not break) under Kerbins gravity?'.

[Vorg]

It would still be nice to have this info some place. Right now it's just a guess as to what the extra specs mean or how to make use of it.