Layout design optimization of a space propulsion system using hybrid optimization algorithm

The layout design problem of a propulsion system is complex and time-consuming process. This is mainly due to geometrical and performance constraints and system requirements. In addition, layout design optimization of a space propulsion system is non-linear, non-convex, and multimodal, which makes it difficult to implement conventional optimization methods to this class of design problems. This paper presents a hybrid optimization algorithm using genetic algorithm and sequential quadratic programming for optimal layout design of a space propulsion system. Previous research works mainly focused on the layout design components with constant parts. However, the approach adopted in this paper involves both variable mass component and hybrid optimization algorithm (GA-SQP) of a space propulsion system. The proposed hybrid optimization algorithm explores globally the design search space to locate the most promising region using genetic algorithm, whereas gradient-based sequential quadratic programming algorithm is used to reduce the computational time with a high degree of accuracy. The results obtained show that the proposed method provides an effective way of solving layout design optimization problem using both variable mass components method and a hybrid optimization for optimal layout design of a space propulsion system.