A Study on Ship Shape Design Optimization for RCS Reduction Using Taguchi Method

This paper proposes a design optimization technique for ship RCS signature reductions using Taguchi method. The proposed technique comprises of i)evaluating initial RCS signatures, ii)defining critical areas which should be modified as design parameters, and threat factors which can`t be controlled artificially as noise parameters, and finally iv)finding optimum parameters via analyzing signal to noise ratios for designated characteristics. We applied the technique to a model ship and found that it is suitable for radar stealth designs. In addition, the proposed technique is applicable to submarine designs against sonar threats.