Enabling Multicomponent Topology Optimisation with Multidisciplinary Design Optimisation

Master Thesis (2026)
Author(s)

A. Bhaskar (TU Delft - Mechanical Engineering)

Contributor(s)

Matthijs Langelaar – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Mechanical Engineering)

L.F.P. Noel – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Mechanical Engineering)

M. Slebioda – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Mechanical Engineering)

S.J. van den Boom – Mentor (TNO)

Faculty
Mechanical Engineering
More Info
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Publication Year
2026
Language
English
Graduation Date
28-05-2026
Awarding Institution
Delft University of Technology
Programme
Mechanical Engineering
Faculty
Mechanical Engineering
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Abstract

This thesis presents a multidisciplinary design optimisation (MDO) framework for gimbal-based acquisition, tracking, and pointing (ATP) mechanisms used in laser satellite communication systems. The research combines two topology optimisations, bearing models, and system-level coupling to enable the simultaneous optimisation of multiple interacting components within a unified framework.

The proposed methodology captures the interaction between structural stiffness, mass distribution, bearing behaviour, and launch performance, moving beyond conventional component-level optimisation approaches. Different coupling and optimisation strategies are investigated, including reduced-order modelling and gradient-based optimisation techniques, to evaluate the trade-off between computational efficiency and physical accuracy. This thesis demonstrates how multidisciplinary optimisation can support the development of lightweight, high-performance gimbal systems for future optical communication applications.

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File under embargo until 28-05-2027