Theoretical basis of a simulation package for the integrated optimisation of profile and trajectory of satellite launch vehicles

Introducing the concepts of set-theoretic sequencing logic, hierarchic optimisation and sensitivity-directed iterative simulation, this paper provides a theoretical basis for the development of a simulation package for the three-dimensional atmospheric controlled flight of satellite launch vehicles subject to specified control constraints. The approach described here enables the optimisation of the profile of the vehicle to be carried out together with its trajectory, given the orbital objectives. The simulation package, SIMSPACE II, developed on this basis, is shown to have features superior to the MATS program and related packages.