1 research outputs found
Simultaneous Optimization of Launch Vehicle Stage and Trajectory Considering Operational Safety Constraints
A conceptual design of a launch vehicle involves the optimization of
trajectory and stages considering its launch operations. This process
encompasses various disciplines, such as structural design, aerodynamics,
propulsion systems, flight control, and stage sizing. Traditional approaches
used for the conceptual design of a launch vehicle conduct the stage and
trajectory designs sequentially, often leading to high computational complexity
and suboptimal results. This paper presents an optimization framework that
addresses both trajectory optimization and staging in an integrated way. The
proposed framework aims to maximize the payload-to-liftoff mass ratio while
satisfying the constraints required for safe launch operations (e.g., the
impact points of burnt stages and fairing). A case study demonstrates the
advantage of the proposed framework compared to the traditional sequential
optimization approach.Comment: 25 page