NASA 1996 SBIR Phase I

PROJECT TITLE : A Multimedia Tool for Multidisciplinary Optimization of High Temperature Structures.

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

This proposal develops a unique way of integrating multi-disciplinary optimization technology with reliability based methods of analysis for general purpose synthesis of high temperature propulsion components. The idea is to provide a tool which can integrate and communicate with general and special purpose simulation packages for reliability and cost analyses, sensitivity analysis through automatic differentiation, and more importantly provision of design modification and optimization capability. The proposed system provides a seamless integration of thermal, dynamic and strength analysis by taking the uncertain and random information of materials, environment, processes during optimal synthesis. Reliability based Multi-Disciplinary Optimization (RMDO) also conducts what-if cost trade-off studies and design modifications of the engine structures to meet the stringent and ambitious performance requirements. Computational efficiency in reliability analysis has been a long sought goal and with the use of high quality function approximations, the concept can be accomplished. As a by product of this development, a multimedia tool for stand-alone probabalistic analysis using efficient mathematical approaches for integrating with any of the commercially available simulation packages becomes available. To demonstrate RMDO, applications from aircraft engine manufacturers and NASA HSCT and HiTemp program offices will be taken.

The proposed software design tool will directly benefit NASA in the developmental efforts of HSCT, AST, EPM and Smart Green Engine structures. The reliability based optimization tool greatly assists engine, airframe and automotive manufacturers in their product development as well as reducing life cycle costs. MRI will benefit by marketing the software and providing consulting and contract services.

Edward Wright,
Multidisciplinary Research, Inc.,
10275 Cherry Tree Terrace
Dayton, Ohio 45458-9431

Multidisciplinary Research, Inc.
10275 Cherry Tree Terrace
Dayton, Ohio 45458-9431