Framework for the Robust Design Optimization of an Airframe and its Engines

Abstract

Optimization studies for the next generation of aircraft and engine families are typically associated with the addition of technological advances to improve fuel efficiency, noise levels, and overall aircraft economics. In the conceptual study phase, the optimization process must address the uncertainties related to the anticipation of market requirements and potential technological advances at the time of entry into service, along with the fidelity of the modeling applied in the analysis. The current paper presents a framework using a robust design optimization methodology to mitigate these uncertainties when an airframe and its engines are designed jointly. The optimization of a 70 passenger aircraft illustrates the approach with a formulation seeking to optimize the design while attenuating its sensitivity to the potentially adverse effects of uncertainties.