Multi-disciplinary and Multi-objective Design Optimization of a Lunar Rover System with Operational Considerations

Abstract

This study proposes a framework for designing/optimizing a Lunar rover for an early-phase mission concept trade-off. The proposed framework (1) develops models for major rover subsystems and lunar environment, (2) generates the rover's operational schedule using the models, and (3) yields a set of attractive design solutions. The framework adopts a Pareto search algorithm to find the Pareto-optimal solutions for the multi-objective optimization problem considering multiple system-level metrics (i.e., cost, exploration range, scientific value). A case study on the design optimization of a realistic Lunar rover demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed framework.