NEW SOLUTION PROVIDES A SEAMLESS PROCESS AND GREAT OPTIMIZATION
RESULTS
In the first build of the Integrated Hypersonic Aeromechanics Tool (IHAT), the fundamental disciplines of Propulsion, Aerodynamics, Structures, and Thermal Analysis were integrated into a seamless process that simulated the overall performance of a high speed missile. The design structure matrix for Build 4 of the IHAT system shows the connections between the different analysis modules, including Geometry, Aero, Propulsion, Trajectory, Thermal, Structural, Stability & Control, Sensors, Lethality, and Cost.
OPTIMIZED STRATEGY
A hierarchical optimization strategy was implemented in IHAT, where structural thicknesses and ply angles were optimized in the Structures Module, and insulation thicknesses were optimized in the Thermal Module. The IHAT system provided an ideal foundation for developing the proposed analysis system. The fact that the IHAT system already existed significantly reduced the risk of the proposed effort.
“The Integrated Hypersonic Aeromechanics Tool (IHAT) has evolved into a viable product for the DOD community", said Michael J. Munson, Weapons Airframe Technology Manager. "I plan on using this tool for detailed evaluation and risk management projects in the future.”
CHALLENGES:
- Vehicle requirements spanning many engineering disciplines
- Significant coupling among disciplines was a challenge for conventional design approaches
- High speed operational environment required a treamlined process and optimization
VALUE CREATED:
- Created seamless process simulating overall performance
- Implemented a hierarchial optimization strategy
- Connected different analysis modules
- IHAT system significantly reduced the risk of the proposed effort
