Structural optimization of missile vertical launch bed launching from the ground using finite element method

Missile’s vertical launchers are one of the ground equipment of tactical missiles used to hold them in launching position, vertical position and servicing them for launching. Tower launchers’ dimension and configuration depend on effective loads, dimension and weight of the missile. In the majority of tower launchers two bars connected to each other with crossbar connectors are considered as basic parts. Space frame element is used for designing and a finite element code has been written in MATLAB Software to calculate stress and deformities of the structure. A Genetic algorithm which is codified in MATLAB has been used for optimization. This code uses the finite element code to calculate the stress and deformation of the structure. All of the written codes have been compared to experimental data and results confirm the accuracy and exactness of the outcome. In this design weight of the tower launcher was the target equation, displacement and yield stress were constraints and geometrical specifications of the cross section were variables.