Optimal design of a clamp band system based on genetic algorithm and experimental verification

As one of the most common separation systems, the clamp band system (CBS) is widely used in the process of connection and release of spacecraft with the launch vehicle. An optimal design method and a separation shock response estimation method were proposed for a large-diameter CBS in this paper. First, a new application based on the parameter modeling method of MSC.Patran and genetic algorithm (GA) was proposed to design the CBS. Finite element techniques for 2D axisymmetric analysis of the CBS were developed, including the modeling of Vclamp, strap pre-tension, and loads, then the optimizing constraints and objectives were also defined. Secondly, a CBS with a diameter of 3 m was designed via the proposed method, which is verified by the 3D finite element analysis under MSC.Marc and a stiffness experiment. Thirdly, the separation process of the CBS and its highfrequency and high-amplitude shock response were calculated by an explicit dynamic solver, and the differences between the model and experimental results were discussed. Finally, a single degree of freedom (SDOF) spring-mass system was constructed to predict the weakening effect of the delay time on the shock response. The slow-release device was designed and the experiment was completed to verify the effectiveness of the method.