Global and local multidisciplinary design optimization of expendable launch vehicles

The paper presents engineering models, optimization algorithms and design results from a Multidisciplinary Design Optimization (MDO) research in the framework of ESA’s PRESTIGE PhD program. The application focuses on the conceptual design of classical unmanned Expendable Launch Vehicles, and results are presented from sensitivity studies and validation tests on European launchers (Ariane-5 ECA and VEGA). Relatively simple models and a mixed global/local optimization approach allow obtaining reasonable results with limited computational effort. A critical analysis of the results also leads to the identification of the most critical modeling aspects to be improved to allow for early preliminary design applications.