Multi-Stage Liquid Propellant Launch Vehicle Conceptual Design, Based on Combinatorial Optimization of Major Design Parameters

Abstract

The principle goal of this paper is developing of Launch Vehicle Conceptual Design (LVCD) method based on combinational optimization of major design parameters. To this end, ten sub-algorithms will be presented in this design approach. Mass distribution of different stages to launch maximum payload mass to the orbit, pitch program trajectory to get to the maximum final velocity, and providing minimum velocity loss due to gravity, and also minimum axial acceleration of various stages of launch vehicle will be optimized as the results of the presented approach. The optimization process is performed subject to the restrictions. Also, the performance index is optimized in a mutual iteration mechanism. Evaluation and verification of the presented method is performed using available data of two and three-stage launch vehicles.

Keywords

• conceptual design
• optimum mass distribution
• pitch program
• optimization
• launch vehicle
• liquid propellant