Optimization design of satellite separation systems based on Multi-Island Genetic Algorithm

Abstract The separation systems are crucial for the launch of satellites. With respect to the existing design issues of satellite separation systems, an optimization design approach based on Multi-Island Genetic Algorithm is proposed, and a hierarchical optimization of system mass and separation angular velocity is designed. Multi-Island Genetic Algorithm is studied for the problem and the optimization parameters are discussed. Dynamic analysis of ADAMS used to validate the designs is integrated with iSIGHT. Then the optimization method is employed for a typical problem using the helical compression spring mechanism, and the corresponding objective functions are derived. It turns out that the mass of compression spring catapult is decreased by 30.7% after optimization and the angular velocity can be minimized considering spring stiffness errors. Moreover, ground tests and on-orbit flight indicate that the error of separation speed is controlled within 1% and the angular velocity is reduced by nearly 90%, which proves the design result and the optimization approach.