Multiobjective and Multicase Optimization of a Spacecraft Radiator

Abstract

Optimization is now an established tool for obtaining better solutions in engineering design. Nevertheless, the multiplicity of possible applications and the continuing search for better computational performance has motivated researchers in continuing to propose new methods, as well as improvements on existing ones. Not only optimization has allowed a better exploration of the design space, it also can significantly reduce the time of the design process. In this paper the advantages of using a fully multiobjective and multicase approach for the design of space radiators is presented. The optimization of Amazonia-1 satellite batteries panel thermal design is investigated. Instead of conventional space radiators, in this work an innovative solution considering the fin as heat absorber is analyzed. The results have shown that there are several viable configurations regarding to fin coating material, heater power consumption and additional mass, and the choice of the appropriate radiator configuration shall be evaluated based on system impact. The possibility of testing automatically different coatings and sizes for the fin, allowed by the optimization approach, increased significantly the probability of finding viable solutions on the design space.

Keywords

• Optimization
• Thermal design
• Satellite thermal control