Satellite topology and continuous size optimisation based on two-level multi-point method

Abstract

In view of the in-plane stiffening characteristics of the initial structure layout of a box-plate satellite, optimal design of a satellite structure is carried out under several working conditions based on the Two-level multi-point approximation method. Firstly, the finite element model (FEM) of a satellite structure and the mathematical model of the optimisation problem are established. Secondly, the two-level sequence problem is established by using the multi-point approximation method. The approximate problem is solved by the genetic algorithm and the dual method to approach the original problem. Finally, the method is used to carry out the integrated optimisation design from the topological configuration/layout of the satellite to the detailed size of the section, in which the in-plane reinforced beam is the topological variable, and the section size of the beam and the thickness of the plate are the continuous variables. The results show that the satellite weight can be reduced effectively under the requirements of frequency and static force, and the results can provide reference for the design of other satellite structures.