Structural optimization of second-stage intertank composite X-shaped truss

An optimization procedure for composite second-stage intertank truss assembly used for connecting the fuel (Liquid Hydrogen, LH₂) tank and the oxidizer (Liquid Oxygen, LO₂) tank is proposed. The typical working conditions of X-shaped truss are 30 tons tensile load and 5.55 tons compressive load in sequence. Parametric geometrical model and finite element model are created in Catia R21 and Abaqus 6.14, respectively. An optimization procedure integrating geometrical model and finite element model has been constructed in Isight 2018, the algorithm of which is multi-islands genetic algorithm. The result shows that the weight of the optimal structure decreased by 26.50% comparing with the initial design. (paper)