Modification of Gravity Gradient Boom of LEO Satellites Using Axiomatic Design Methodology

One aspect of Axiomatic Design is to optimize old designs of mechanical elements and systems. Optimization of mechanical assemblies is often concerned with reducing the mass and to augment mechanical properties as well as strength, stiffness and surface hardness. This would take in satellites a high significance, in which mass impacts straightly on energy consumption in the space mission.In this paper optimization of a simplified typical gravity gradient boom in satellites was treated. For this purpose an existing design of a brass boom is considered and design of a composite material boom has been obtained using Axiom 2 of Axiomatic Design methodology. Some manufacturing constrains like metallic interface connecting the boom to the satellite wall and protection of the system in space condition were taken into account.