Parametric Co-Optimization of Lifting Blunt Body Vehicle Concepts for Atmospheric Entry

Abstract

An integrated Multi-disciplinary Design Optimization (MDO) technique for the development of planetary atmospheric entry vehicle concepts accounting for shape, trajectory, thermal protection system (TPS), and vehicle closure is described. This MDO technique aims to provide a practical approach to exploring new vehicle concepts to meet the increased demands of future space exploration mission requirements. This has been accomplished using a combination of engineering and higher-fidelity physics-based analysis tools along with optimization methods and engineering judgment. This integrated MDO process allows engineers to efficiently and consistently analyze multiple design architectures. The MDO environment is created using the ModelCenter® software developed by Phoenix Integration. The framework described is referred to as COBRA, a rough acronym for "Co-Optimization of Bluntbody Re-entry Analysis". COBRA utilizes parallel computing capabilities in two forms. One form is the use of parallel discipline codes, such as the aerothermodynamics analysis tools. Secondly, multiple design cases can be run simultaneously through the MDO framework. This parallelization approach allows the evaluation of complicated integrated systems with the proper level of physics within a reasonable turnaround time to impact and influence early design decisions.