Multidisciplinary optimization of a solid propellant sectional geometry for internal ballistic and structural strength criteria

A multidisciplinary optimization study which focuses on the geometric design of slotted solid propellant grains for solid rocket motors is presented. The study investigates propellant design with respect to both internal ballistic performance and structural strength. A zero-dimensional ballistic solver is developed within this study and used to determine the variation of chamber pressure and thrust with respect to time. Also, the propellant structure is analyzed by using a linear viscoelastic model based on the finite element method in Abaqus software. As a result of the optimization process, optimum geometrical parameter values for a slotted grain are determined among different design alternatives through a deterministic approach.