Rapid Indirect Trajectory Optimization for Conceptual Design of Hypersonic Missions

During conceptual design, trajectory optimization is often performed using direct methods. This investigation illustrates that trajectory optimization and vehicle performance characterization can be rapidly performed by coupling indirect optimization, continuation, and symbolic manipulation. Examples illustrate that the historical challenges associated with indirect optimization methods can be overcome, enabling the rapid construction of high-quality solutions. In this design methodology, highly constrained optimal trajectories are rapidly constructed by traversing optimal manifolds of varying design problems throughout the continuation process.

[1]  Robert T. Bibeau,et al.  Trajectory optimization for a fixed trim re-entry vehicle using direct collocation with nonlinear programming , 2000 .

[2]  Michael J. Grant,et al.  Mars Science Laboratory Entry Optimization Using Particle Swarm Methodology , 2007 .

[3]  Donald E. Kirk,et al.  Optimal control theory : an introduction , 1970 .

[4]  B. Laub,et al.  Thermal protection system technology and facility needs for demanding future planetary missions , 2004 .

[5]  Ian McCausland,et al.  Introduction to optimal control , 1968 .

[6]  I︠u︡. P. Petrov.  Variational Methods in Optimum Control Theory , 2012 .

[7]  Michael A. Bolender,et al.  Rapid, Robust Trajectory Design Using Indirect Optimization Methods , 2015 .

[8]  R. Braun,et al.  Rapid Simultaneous Hypersonic Aerodynamic and Trajectory Optimization Using Variational Methods , 2011 .

[9]  Robert D. Braun,et al.  Analytic Hypersonic Aerodynamics for Conceptual Design of Entry Vehicles , 2010 .

[10]  Aaron Strauss.  Introduction to Optimal Control Theory , 1968 .

[11]  J. Betts.  Survey of Numerical Methods for Trajectory Optimization , 1998 .

[12]  A. L. Herman,et al.  Direct optimization using collocation based on high-order Gauss-Lobatto quadrature rules , 1996 .

[13]  John T. Betts,et al.  Practical Methods for Optimal Control and Estimation Using Nonlinear Programming , 2009 .

[14]  Qi Gong,et al.  Connections between the covector mapping theorem and convergence of pseudospectral methods for optimal control , 2008, Comput. Optim. Appl..

[15]  Michael A. Bolender,et al.  Minimum Terminal Energy Optimizations of Hypersonic Vehicles Using Indirect Methods , 2015 .

[16]  Michael J. Grant,et al.  Rapid simultaneous hypersonic aerodynamic and trajectory optimization for conceptual design , 2012 .

[17]  Richard W. Powell,et al.  Guidance and control analysis of the entry of a lifting body personnel launch vehicle , 1991 .

[18]  I. Michael Ross,et al.  Rapid Verification Method for the Trajectory Optimization of Reentry Vehicles , 2003 .