%0 Journal Article
	%A James A Foster and  Guglielmo S Aglietti
	%D 2013
	%J International Journal of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering
	%B World Academy of Science, Engineering and Technology
	%I Open Science Index 78, 2013
	%T Optimization of Multifunctional Battery Structures for Mars
	%U https://publications.waset.org/pdf/4793
	%V 78
	%X Multifunctional structures are a potentially disruptive
technology that allows for significant mass savings on spacecraft.
The specific concept addressed herein is that of a multifunctional
power structure. In this paper, a parametric optimisation of the
design of such a structure that uses commercially available battery
cells is presented. Using numerical modelling, it was found that there
exists several trade-offs aboutthe conflict between the capacity of the
panel and its mechanical properties. It was found that there is no
universal optimal location for the cells. Placing them close to the
mechanical interfaces increases loading in the mechanically weak
cells whereas placing them at the centre of the panel increases the
stress inthe panel and reduces the stiffness of the structure.
	%P 1193 - 1199