The local distributed criteria method for multidisciplinary optimization of launcher parameters

The new approach to the multidisciplinary optimization of launcher parameters by the target criterion is formulated in view of requirements of aerodynamics, strength and control. The approach is based on the local decomposition of the initial problem into monodisciplinary subtasks with special local distributed criteria (LDC). The regular method of LDC formation is proposed on the basis of sensitivity functions. The functions result from the rigorous solution of the trajectory optimization problem by the indirect method-the Pontryagin maximum principle. The LDC help to calculate the specific contribution of all flight phases to the functional and allow monodisciplinary subtasks an independent access to the unified target criterion. Results of the LDC-method application for the space launcher parameter optimization are described. The qualitatively new solutions and their advantage in terms of the maximum payload mass are demonstrated in comparison with the traditional approach. (C) 2008 Published by Elsevier Ltd.