Multi-discipline and multi-objective design optimization of a lunar exploration rover system considering rover operation

Abstract

In this study, a framework to evaluate system-level’s various architectures and to obtain the optimal design solutions for lunar rover system is developed to implement the concept of a given lunar exploration mission in the early development phase. The rover system architecture is evaluated using a trade-off problem formulation with evaluation indicators such as rover exploration range for scientific information metrics and rover mass for cost metrics, which is presented by Pareto front which is the optimal solution set for rover’s power system and locomotion system design variables. Moreover, a lunar environment model, a rover subsystem model, and a rover operating schedule model are developed in the framework for lunar rover design optimization as mission parameters which include mission duration, landing sites, mission exploration terrain, and scientific payloads. The lunar environment modeling is conducted for thermal condition of lunar surface, lunar topographic environment, the incidence angle of solar flux, etc. The rover subsystem modeling is conducted for several subsystems with multi-discipline to obtain quantitative evaluation metrics as system architecture and design variables for principal subsystems. In the proposed top-level rover operating scenario, the rover operation schedule model during the rover's mission duration is created considering lunar environment and rover resources for electric power status and mobility performance. The operating schedule and rover system models estimate the evaluation metrics such as rover's exploration range and mass budget for trade-off study. Using these quantitative data, trade-off studies are conducted in various mission conditions, and parametric analysis is also conducted to implement the baseline design of the lunar exploration rover.