Analysis of SpaceLiner Cabin geometric design and accommodation

Kurzfassung

This thesis investigates the cabin design of the SpaceLiner 8.0, an innovative hypersonic suborbital passenger transport concept developed by the German Aerospace Center (DLR). The research focuses primarily on the geometric configuration of the SpaceLiner cabin and the integration of critical onboard systems, with an emphasis on passenger accommodation and overall system feasibility. Key subsystems examined include the Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) and luggage compartments, both of which require compact, lightweight, yet functionally robust designs. The study evaluates their placement within the fuselage, especially in the underfloor space, to optimize center of gravity, spatial efficiency, and safety under high acceleration conditions. Several iterations of the SpaceLiner design, notably versions 7-2 and 7-3, are analyzed to understand how previous design decisions informed current baselines. Earlier configurations provided valuable aerodynamic data and preliminary structural insights but revealed limitations in terms of control, emergency evacuation systems, and thermal protection. More recent designs have addressed these shortcomings with advancements such as integrated active water-based transpiration cooling and enhanced structural integrity.