Automated Multidisciplinary Optimization of a Space-Based Telescope

Abstract

<div class="htmlview paragraph">Automated design space exploration was implemented and demonstrated in the form of the multidisciplinary optimization of the design of a space-based telescope.</div> <div class="htmlview paragraph">Off-the-shelf software representing the industry standards for thermal, structural, and optical analysis were employed. The integrated thermal/structural/optical models were collected and tasked with finding an optimum design using yet another off-the-shelf program. Using this integrated tool, the minimum mass thermal/structural design was found that directly satisfied optical performance requirements without relying on derived requirements such as isother-mality and mechanical stability. Overdesign was therefore avoided, and engineering productivity was greatly improved.</div> <div class="htmlview paragraph">This ambitious project was intended to be a pathfinder for integrated design activities. Therefore, difficulties and lessons learned are presented, along with recommendations for future investigations.</div>