Robust Design of Notching Profiles Under Epistemic Model Uncertainties

The notching profile defines the loading conditions for satellite subsystem shake tests. Its model-based design is a critical issue in the space field and must be defined early in order to initiate as soon as possible discussions between launch authorities and subcontractors. This discussion revolves around the following dilemma: how conservative can the loading be and still be safe for the subsystem interfaces? Indeed, the significant lack of knowledge present in the non-validated model can result in overloading conditions. This paper will propose a global strategy for the model-based design of notching profiles which accounts for epistemic modeling uncertainties using an info-gap approach. The latter provides a generic framework for evaluating and comparing the performances of competing profile designs as well as addressing issues of lack of knowledge in both deterministic and probabilistic model parameters. The proposed methodologies will be illustrated on an academic test case.