Process Chain Development for Iterative, Concurrent Design of Advanced Space Transportation Systems

Abstract

Development of advanced Space Transportation Systems (STS) at an early definition phase requires an iterative and multidisciplinary approach. High sensitivity and coupling of subsystem parameters with overall system characteristics necessitates close collaboration between domains. Rapid transfer of large amounts of data is necessary while errors and inconsistencies must be avoided. Concurrent Engineering (CE) is one approach through which to automate data sharing and minimise communication overheads. Previous effective implementation of this method at the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) Concurrent Engineering Facility (CEF) was limited to early-phase satellite design activities. Applying CE methods to STS design have been met with limited success. This paper reports on a new initiative from DLR titled Collaborative Launch vhicle Analysis (CLaVA). Within the scope of CLaVA, a flexible design environment for STS is investigated applied to the DLR CEF. The investigation led to the development of a high-level design cycle for STS. In collaboration with the aeronautical divisions of DLR a solution was identified, employing a central data model based on Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) methodology, implemented within a distributed environment. With modern revision control systems, it is envisioned that multiple STS concepts will be analysed in parallel in the CE environment. A preliminary test of these concepts is planned through a mock CE study.