A Feasibility Study to Develop Optimization Algorithms for Aircraft Structures.
Abstract
The concept of design to cost requires accurate cost estimation throughout the acquisition process of a major weapon system. Cost estimation is particularly important during the conceptual and validation phases. This research effort was directed toward improving cost estimation techniques for aircraft structures. Previous cost estimates had been derived through the use of a Vehicle Design and Evaluation Program (VDEP) which designed an aircraft structure to a minimum weight for a given set of structural parameters. However, a vehicle designed for minimum weight did not necessarily result in a structure with the lowest cost. This study examined the feasibility of developing algorithms which would, together with VDEP, design a cost optimized airframe structure. Cost as the dependent variable was regressed with load factor, rib spacing, structural types, skin thickness, and weight as the independent variables. The results of the research showed that it is feasible to develop cost optimization algorithms by using the highly significant relationship between skin thickness and rib spacing. The analysis further indicated that when weight was removed from the regression models, skin thickness became the key design parameter. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADA044190
Entities
People
- Bruce P. Christensen
- Ronald L. Evans
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology