Comparison of MDO methods for an earth observation satellite

It is shown in this paper the application of several multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) methods for an earth observation satellite to optimize the performance of the earth observation. Based on the best earth observation criteria, a mathematical model of the satellite is proposed, which involves design variables, coupling variables and constraint functions. The analysis models of each subsystem are given, including the payload, attitude control, propulsion, power, and structure subsystem. The optimization is conducted by utilizing three MDO methods. Moreover the comparison among these methods is given to show the different features of these methods.