Multi-Stage Liquid Propellant Launch Vehicle Conceptual Design (LVCD) Software, Based on Multi-Parameter Optimization Idea

The principle goal of this paper is to introduce Launch Vehicle Conceptual Design (LVCD) software based on multi-parameter optimization idea. The main objectives of this software arereduction of the cost and time of conceptual design phase. This software is user friendly such that an operator familiar with fundamentals of design and launch vehicle mass – energy equations and with primary training operator is capable to work with LVCD.The algorithm used in LVCD, is based on combinational optimization of major design parameters. To this end, ten sub-algorithms will be presented in this design approach. Mass distribution of different stages to launch maximum payload mass to the orbit, pitch program trajectory to get to the maximum final velocity, and providing minimum velocity loss due to gravity, and also minimum axial acceleration of various stages of launch vehicle will be optimized as the results of the presented approach. The optimization process is performed subject to the restrictions. Also, the performance index is optimized in a mutual iteration mechanism (multi-parameter optimization). Evaluation and verification of the presented method is performed using available data of two and three-stage launch vehicles