Multi-Objective Optimal Design of Launch Pad by Empirical Prediction Method Combined with NURBS Modeling and Genetic Algorithm

The Intense acoustic wave generated by the jet flame at the lift-off causes the vehicle to vibrate in the form of acoustic loads. There are two methods to predict acoustic loads of launch vehicle, empirical and numerical method. From the perspective of launch pad shape optimization, the original empirical method known as distributing source method is hard to freely simulate various launch pad having curved shapes. On the other hand, numerical method can treat various situations but it costs enormous computational capability. In this paper, we conduct the multi-objective optimal design based on empirical prediction method by introducing NURBS(Non-Uniform Rational B-Spline) modeling and genetic algorithm. NURBS is a mathematical modeling method that expresses a curved line, and it can be applied to existing empirical source distributing method to simulate various launch pad shapes. Genetic algorithm is the main component of the optimization to produce the next generations. This Genetic algorithm has been applied to empirical prediction methods to design optimal launch pad shapes.