The choice of architecture in the design of large-scale complex systems has an enormous bearing on the cost, performance and adaptability of the system. It is often the case that the operational environment of the system changes over time, necessitating evolution of the architecture. In this paper, tradespace graphs of candidate space-based relay networks for NASA's Space Communication and Navigation (SCaN) program, focusing on the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) system, are analyzed in order to examine the potential pathways through the tradespace for a specified planning horizon. We utilize a method that enumerates architectures as vertices in a tradespace graph, taking into account both the fixed properties of the architecture and the variable ages of its assets. We then examine what real options can be put in place to enable future flexibility given uncertainty about the lifespan of existing TDRS assets. In a separate set of analysis, these time-expanded graphs are used to price the potential inclusion of hosted payloads against a range of possible architectural decisions.


    Access

    Access via TIB

    Check availability in my library

    Order at Subito €


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Communications satellites: Time expanded graph exploration of a tradespace of architectures



    Published in:

    Acta astronautica ; 115 ; 442-451


    Publication date :

    2015




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Print


    Language :

    English



    Classification :

    BKL:    50.93 / 50.93 Weltraumforschung / 55.60 Raumfahrttechnik / 55.60
    Local classification TIB:    050/7040



    Tradespace Exploration of the Next Generation Communication Satellites

    Aguilar, Alexa / Butler, Patrick / Collins, Jennifer et al. | AIAA | 2019


    Augmenting Conceptual Design Trajectory Tradespace Exploration with Graph Theory

    Dees, Patrick D. / Zwack, Mathew R. / Edwards, Stephen et al. | NTRS | 2016


    Rotorcraft Tradespace Exploration Incorporating Reliability Engineering

    Fiondella, Lance / Bhattacharya, Saikath / Nagaraju, Vidhyashree et al. | British Library Conference Proceedings | 2015


    Revisiting the Tradespace Exploration Paradigm:Structuring the Exploration Process

    Ross, A. / McManus, H. / Rhodes, D. et al. | British Library Conference Proceedings | 2010


    Exploration of Support Methods for Tradespace Exploration

    Skowronska, Annette / Turner, Cameron / Gorsich, David et al. | SAE Technical Papers | 2023