Weight optimization of sampling instruments for ESA Mars Express mission

This paper sets out to present the weight optimization of sampling drill‐bits which is designed for European Space Agency – Beagle 2 Mars Express mission.

In this study, two techniques, finite element analysis and numerical optimization, are employed to find out the optimal solution within the various constraints.

The result shows that the total weight of sampling drill‐bits was reduced over 76.7 percent.

The proposed methodology can also be applied in different engineering design applications and provides a total integrated solution as a generic template for design engineers.