Solar Arrays Thermal Conditions and Power Production Modeling with GPU-based Approach*

Abstract

At present, there are two parallel trends related to SA construction tasks and problems. From the one side, due to complexity of spacecrafts construction and growing use of high-power large-sized antennas, it is necessary to consider the effect of shading on the SA and research the effects accompanying this phenomenon. From the other side, modern computer tools, especially GPUs (graphics processing unit), allow one to create mini-supercomputer based on “common” desktop/laptop and perform CAE (computer-aided engineering)-based processes using 3D models of different LOD (Level-of-detail). In this paper, we present a conception of SA parameters computer modeling based on hierarchical, property-based 3D-model of spacecraft. Thus, one can model different work modes of spacecraft on the project stage, with real-time prediction of effects related to space factors complex combination impact. The result is easy-to-edit, easy-to-calibrate “digital copy” of spacecraft which allows engineer to model and investigate complex space factors combination results for a different orbital work mode