Abstract: In traditional top-down design process, design parameters are communicated through single-skeleton models, and the upper and lower design units are strongly coupled. To solve the problems, a multi-skeleton modeling approach for top-down design is proposed. Firstly, in accordance with different kinds of design parameters, three major skeleton models are defined, including location skeleton model, publication skeleton model and design skeleton model. The characteristics of multi-skeleton models are also described. Then, a hierarchical multi-skeleton modeling approach is explored for top-down design. Moreover, the proposed approach is illustrated in detail by addressing how to realize the design parameters management in categories and control in levels. Finally, it expounds the communicating way and structural optimization of design parameters to support parameters controlled publishing and design units reuse. A meteorological satellite design case shows that the multi-skeleton modeling approach is feasible and effective.