Objectives  In order to solve the problem of free-field pressure sensor laying in dynamic anti-shock test of warship,

  Methods  based on the theory of computational multi-body dynamics and fluid dynamics, the laying mechanism of free-field pressure sensor is designed. the influence of the parameters such as shape and diameter of cross section of laying mechanism are considered in the design, and the truss strength is checked by structural mechanics numerical method.

  Results  The results show that the performance of laying mechanism can satisfy test requirement, and a truss made of carbon fiber is easier to operate and it is safer when installed at boardside. the flow resistance of truss increases dramatically when its diameter is greater than 35 mm.

  Conclusions  without loss of generality, the design, modeling, checking and the analysis method in this paper can be used in other similar mechanical structures.